Psychological support for grieving law enforcement officers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Community support means a lot to law enforcement during a difficult time following the death of a young Independence Officer.

Pastor Darron Edwards of United Believers Community Church bridges the gap between the community and law enforcement, who are now turning to him after the death of Blaize Madrid-Evans.

“He knew his purpose and he served his purpose in the most valiant way,” said Edwards.

Officers began calling Edwards for prayer and support shortly after the deadly shooting.

“I often try to remind them of the service they provide to try to protect our communities, and they try to remind you of their value, you know, their humanity, that they are not robots, that it is normal to feel pain, there is nothing wrong with hurting, ”Edwards said.

Trauma experts agree.

“It’s totally normal, no matter what you’re going through, there is no right or wrong way to feel,” said Penny Monetti, trauma therapist.

Monetti is one of more than 30 behavioral health professionals who have partnered to work specifically with first responders in Missouri.

“They tell me how overworked they are, how understaffed they are,” Monetti said.

Monetti believes the death of Officer Madrid-Evans will impact his colleagues and other law enforcement in various ways, but there is a coping mechanism that will be crucial.

“Talking about what you’re going through is going to be monumental at this point,” Monetti said. “Find friends who, in common with you, that you feel comfortable with, who are going through the same kinds of things.”

She adds that community support for law enforcement can also go a long way, a sentiment that Edwards echoes.

“And that we can really come together and come together to bring hope and healing to the tragic situation that has arisen,” said Edwards.

Anyone needing help can access a list of resources below.