Two veteran New York City Police Department officers killed themselves this week, leading the department to encourage troubled officers to seek help.
Deputy Chief Steven Silks was found Wednesday in an unmarked police car dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. He was just one month away from turning 63 and facing mandatory retirement. Less than 24 hours later, 58-year-old homicide detective Joseph Calabrese also fatally shot himself. His body was found near a beach after a massive search.
NYPD Commissioner James O’Neill emphasized at a Thursday press conference that help is available for officers suffering in silence.
“To the cops here today, I need you to know, help is available to you,” O’Neill said. “Help is here, you are never alone.”
Deputy Chief Steven Silks truly was one of the most capable & most dependable cops this profession has ever seen. His entire 39-year NYPD career — much of his adult life, in fact — was devoted to NYC, its police officers, & to fighting crime & protecting all the people we serve. pic.twitter.com/CbrA1f0C9G
— Commissioner O’Neill (@NYPDONeill) June 6, 2019
NYPD’s highest-ranking uniformed officer, Chief Terence Monahan said in a video posted to social media that officers should check in with one another.
“You put strangers first every day. Now it’s time to prioritize your own health and well-being. And don’t forget to check in with your fellow cops,” Monahan said.
We’re grappling with another tragic suicide today. I can’t emphasize enough: there’s no shame in seeking help. As cops we contend with a lot, but YOU’RE NEVER ALONE. There are options 24/7. BELIEVE ME, THE DEPT. IS HERE TO HELP YOU, NOT HURT YOU. Please share with fellow cops. pic.twitter.com/JmrOfrwmtl
— Chief Terence Monahan (@NYPDChiefofDept) June 7, 2019
Silks had 38 years of experience on the force and Calabrese had 37. Over the past decade, 48 NYPD officers have killed themselves, with three deaths so far this year. In recent years, more law enforcement officers have died by suicide than were killed in the line of duty.
“We can’t hide from this discussion,” O’Neill said. “We should not, and we will not.”
