SALT LAKE CITY – A memorial honoring law enforcement officers bears two new names Thursday after a ceremony celebrating the sacrifices of officers killed in the line of duty.
The names of Sgt. Derek Johnson and Sgt. Cory Wride were added to plaques on the Honor Wall at the annual service of the Utah Law Enforcement Memorial at the State Capitol, and the wives of both men were present for the ceremony.
Johnson’s wife, Shante, said she is grateful: “There is a lot going on inside right now. Just a lot of gratitude.”
Wride’s wife, Nanette, also expressed her appreciation for the honor.
“'Deeply touched, and moved--honored that Cory’s not going to be forgotten,” she said. “This is a wonderful way to help the community and us remember these officers.”
The names of Johnson and Wride join those of 135 other Utah officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Derek Johnson served with the Draper Police Department. He was shot and killed last year as he approached a suspect who was parked in an odd manner.
Cory Wride served with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, andhe was shot and killed as he approached a suspect who went on to lead police on a high-speed chase through Utah County before he was fatally wounded by pursuing officers.
A teen who was with that suspect has been ordered to stand trial in connection with Wride’s death.
