OVERLAND PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT

MEDIA RELEASE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 11, 2015
OPPD TO HONOR DEANNA ROSE, PART OF NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

2015 marks the 30th anniversary of the passing of Officer Deanna Rose and the Overland
Park Police Department will hold a memorial wreath ceremony in her honor. The ceremony will
take place at noon Friday, May 15, at the Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead.
Officer Rose is the only Overland Park police officer killed in the line of duty. She was
the first female officer in Kansas to die in the line of duty.
Officer Rose was on patrol during the early morning hours of Jan. 24, 1985, when she
was killed by an intoxicated driver.
The Farmstead was renamed in honor of Officer Rose. It serves as a permanent and living
reminder of Officer Roses love of animals and her zest for life.
Officers in Overland Park and across the country put their lives on the line everyday to
protect their communities. This ceremony is our way to honor Officer Rose for her ultimate
sacrifice in 1985, said Police Chief Francis R. Donchez. As we remember and honor Officer
Rose this week, we also grieve with other agencies across the country that have lost officers
tragically during the past year .
The event is open to the public. Admission to the Farmstead is free Monday through
Thursday.
(cont.)
Overland Park Kansas Police Department
12400 Foster St. 66213

Chief Frank Donchez

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OVERLAND PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT

MEDIA RELEASE
This year, the names of 273 officers killed in the line of duty are being added to the
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. National Police Week is
May 10 through May 16. On May 15, everyone is asked to fly their U.S. flag at half staff in
tribute to fallen law enforcement officers.

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Prepared by: Gary Mason

Public Information Officer
(913) 327-6937

Overland Park Kansas Police Department

12400 Foster St. 66213

Chief Frank Donchez

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