Iowa Department of Corrections, Iowa
End of Watch Monday, November 16, 2020
Add to My HeroesRobert John Vidimos, II
Correctional Officer R.J. Vidimos died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 while assigned to the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women at 420 Mill Street SW in Mitchellville.
Officer Vidimos had served with the Iowa Department of Corrections for one year. He is survived by his wife, son, daughter, and grandson.
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 600 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 58
- Tour 1 year
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause COVID19
- Incident Date Monday, November 2, 2020
Most Recent Reflection
View all 4 ReflectionsMy husband, R.J., was such a loving, caring and giving person. He loved his job as a correctional officer and made such a difference in so many of their lives in the short time he was there. He knew no stranger and loved to help people. His faith in God, his love and country and family were very important to him.
His belly laugh and smile were the best, they would make your day!
He leaves behind his wife, Lois (married 34 years); son, Rob (33 years old); daughter, Lauren (31 years) and grandson, Atlas (his pride and joy - almost 3 years old).
He is missed every single moment and we are all blessed to have able to call his husband, father, grandpa, son, brother, uncle, and friend.
Lois Vidimos
spouse
February 7, 2022
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