Monroe County Deputies Honored at Ceremony

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office held a memorial event to honor members who died in the line of duty.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Law Enforcement

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a stone memorial plinth and bronze laurel wreath, symbolizing solemn remembrance.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office held a memorial ceremony at the Civic Center Plaza to honor deputies who died in the line of duty. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office held a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monroe County Civic Center Plaza to commemorate deputies who died in the line of duty. This service took place as part of the state-wide recognition of Sheriffs' Week.

Why it matters

The ceremony serves as a formal public recognition of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers throughout history. It provides a moment for the community and agency members to reflect on those who lost their lives while serving the public.

The wreath-laying honors members who died in the line of duty, including Undersheriff Frank Hawley, who died in 1919. This event is part of the ongoing observance of Sheriffs' Week in New York.

The players

Monroe County Sheriff's Office

This is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for policing, court security, and jail operations in Monroe County, New York.

Frank Hawley

He was a former Undersheriff of Monroe County who died while serving in the line of duty in 1919.

The details

Members of the sheriff's office and department leadership gathered at the Monroe County Civic Center Plaza to place wreaths. The event highlights the agency's commitment to remembering fallen personnel.

Timeline

  1. Undersheriff Frank Hawley died in the line of duty in 1919.

  2. Sheriffs' Week in New York is observed from September 20 through September 26, 2026.

  3. The wreath-laying ceremony took place on September 22, 2026.

Legal Context

The ceremony follows the formal pattern set by New York State's annual Sheriffs' Week to honor those who have died in service. This week provides a statutory framework for local agencies to recognize the contributions and risks faced by law enforcement officers across the state.

The event serves as a reminder to the local community of the risks associated with law enforcement work. Residents may see increased activity or presence around the Monroe County Civic Center Plaza as the department continues its memorial observances.

The takeaway

Remembering historical losses helps maintain institutional legacy and community connection with local public safety agencies. It encourages a deeper understanding of the risks faced by current officers in the Rochester area.

Further reading

Learn more about local public safety initiatives on the Law Enforcement page.