While it might seem that inmates wouldn’t have many positive things to say about the police officers guarding them, this emotional letter proves otherwise.
The Gwinnett community in Georgia has been mourning the loss of Officer Antwan Toney after he was shot and killed in the line of duty last month.
Though the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office says that they have received an overwhelming amount of amount of love and support from the community, they were particularly moved by a letter that they received from a group of inmates currently serving time in the county’s detention center.
The letter, which was signed by about 20 unnamed inmates, was sent to the police department three weeks after Toney’s death – and the writer offered up their sincerest condolences and gratitude to the law enforcement team “on behalf of myself and a number of fellow prisoners who are currently serving time.”
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“Though law enforcement and criminals may be considered opposites, the intrinsic value of a human life transcends those boundaries by far,” the inmates wrote. “Right is right and wrong is wrong. No matter the color uniform.
“It is from this standpoint, in a spirit of gratitude and utmost respect that I submit this letter to honor all police officers, military personnel (sic) and first responders. Your service and sacrifice make the world a better place for all… THANK YOU.
“In tribute to your courage and dedication, we present this communication that may serve to bring healing, restoration and forgiveness to the lives of all affected by the loss of this officer.”
The police department later posted the photo to Facebook as a means of highlighting the compassionate gesture.
“Sheriff Butch Conway received a heartfelt letter from the most unlikely group of citizens expressing their sorrow at our loss and their support of law enforcement,” says the department.
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“The return address on the envelope is our own because the letter was sent by a group of inmates currently housed in our jail.
“We’re not including their names to protect their privacy, but we’re deeply appreciative of this act of kindness from these men. We think that Officer Toney would also be appreciative of their actions and we hope you are, too.”
Be Sure And Share This Inspiring Story With Your Friends On Social Media – Photo by Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office