St. John Sheriff Mike Tregre hosted May 10,2022 the annual memorial service honoring the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting the citizens of St. John Parish. Joining law enforcement officers for the ceremony at the SJSO’s Percy Hebert Building in LaPlace were families of some of these fallen heroes.

As part of National Police Week, the St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office presents this annual event to pay tribute to officers killed in the line of duty and to honor their memory.

Local officers the SJSO pledges to #NeverForget are: Constable Ignace Rousselle, Deputy Harry Troxlair Sr., Det. Sherman Walker, Deputy Barton Granier, Officer Edmond Songy Jr. Captain Octavio Gonzalez, Deputy Brandon Nielsen and Deputy Jeremy Triche.

“These officers spent the last day of their lives in faithfulness to the vows of their vocation,” said guest speaker Ronny Michel. “They showed up with courage to uphold the law and protect the community. These dedicated men, representatives of public safety, law, and order, did not shrink back when trouble arose, but bravely faced it. … They were brave heroes who faced extraordinary circumstances with courage, honor, and self-sacrifice.”

“… May we pledge to tell our children and grandchildren of the bravery of eight men who died protecting the safety of thousands,” Michel said. “May we honor their lives by serving our community in our individual capacities, modeling adherence to the law, and respect for our police force.”

Michel also offered a message of support to the families of fallen officers. “… To the ones left behind, while nothing I can say will ease your pain,” she said, “I pray our honor, respect, appreciation and admiration of your loved ones’ sacrifice will fill your hearts.”