Palm Bay Police Department, Florida
End of Watch Friday, August 20, 2021
Add to My HeroesFrancisco Jose Tobar
Sergeant Frank Tobar died from complications of contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty while supervising a Police Explorer Academy.
Sergeant Tobar had served with the Palm Bay Police Department for 17 years. He is survived by his wife.
He was posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
The Effects of COVID on Law Enforcement
Beginning in early 2020, thousands of law enforcement officers and other first responders throughout the country began to contract COVID-19 during the worldwide pandemic. Due to the nature of their job, law enforcement officers were required to work and interact with the community even as the majority of the country was self-quarantined. As a result, hundreds of officers died from COVID-related illnesses and other complications.
Corrections agencies, in particular, suffered tremendous losses due to the constant and close proximity between the corrections officers and large inmate populations. Since March 2020, ODMP has verified that over 900 law enforcement officers have died as the result of a confirmed or presumed exposure while on duty and continues to work with hundreds of other agencies that have suffered a COVID-related death.
Visit ODMP's COVID-19 memorial listing every officer who has died as a result of a confirmed or presumed exposure.
Bio
- Age 54
- Tour 17 years
- Badge 19
Incident Details
- Cause COVID19
- Incident Date Friday, July 30, 2021
Most Recent Reflection
View all 46 ReflectionsSo many stories and good times Frank. I'll always remember my green eyed, fair skinned translator when I needed you. From day one of the academy to the last sniff I did for you, I will miss you.
K6
BCSO
April 24, 2022
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