Federal law enforcement officers across the country are facing unprecedented threats even as DHS marks Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9, 2026, with assaults against officers skyrocketing by more than 1,300% in recent years.
The Department of Homeland Security, which represents the largest law enforcement body in the federal government with over 80,000 officers and agents, highlighted the growing dangers facing those who wear the badge while honoring their service. Perhaps most alarming: vehicular attacks against officers have surged by 3,200%, while death threats have increased by a staggering 8,000%, according to department data.
Rising Dangers, Unwavering Commitment
“On this Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, I want to take a moment to express how thankful I am every single day for the men and women who put on the badge and put their lives on the line to protect the American people,” said Secretary Kristi Noem in a statement released for the occasion. “We recognize the sacrifice you and your families make to protect and serve the American people and our great country.”
The annual observance, held each January 9th since its creation in 2015, comes after a particularly deadly year for law enforcement. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 95 officers were killed in the line of duty in 2025 alone.
Why does this day matter? The observance was established by several organizations including Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) following the 2014 Ferguson incident that sparked nationwide debates about policing and community relations. It has since grown into a recognized day of gratitude nationwide.
Daily Risks, Daily Work
The dangerous reality facing officers was underscored by DHS operations continuing even as the appreciation day was observed. Just yesterday, the department arrested Angelica Maria Lua-Pinon, a Mexican national previously convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 in San Fernando, California, among other apprehensions.
The risks facing law enforcement have become so concerning that Congress has taken notice. H.Res.984 in the 119th Congress formally supports the recognition of January 9, 2026, as National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, acknowledging both the service and sacrifice of officers nationwide.
Those dramatic increases in attacks against officers? They’re happening despite most officers reporting they joined the profession specifically to help their communities, according to multiple surveys of law enforcement personnel.
“President Trump and I will always stand with you,” Secretary Noem added in her statement. “Please take some time today to thank an officer or agent today. Make them a meal, buy them a cup of coffee, or simply thank them. To every officer who puts on the badge each day: thank you. Your service is paramount to our nation’s safety.”
Across the country, citizens are being encouraged to show their appreciation through simple gestures—from thank you cards to blue ribbons displayed on mailboxes or car antennas. But for the families of the 95 officers who didn’t make it home last year, the day carries a more profound significance as they navigate life without their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice.
