Law Enforcement Deaths Increase

    2011 has been a deadly year for America’s law enforcement officers.  More have been killed in the line of duty this year than last.

    FOX News Radio’s Jared Halpern reports:

    More than 170 police officers died in the line of duty this year; a 16% percent increase from 2010.  National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Chairman Craig Floyd blames in part, the economy:

    Floyd: “When you cut law enforcement agency budgets, people die.”

    Another factor for police:

    Floyd: “They’re also facing a more cold-blooded, brazen criminal element.”

    A bright spot in the report, fewer officers are dying in traffic accidents.  Floyd credits new state laws requiring motorists to slow down or move over for emergency vehicles.

    Jared Halpern, FOX News Radio.