Brooklynites mourned Officer Randolph Holder, who was gunned down in the line duty last week, during a vigil outside of the 61st Precinct station house in Sheepshead Bay on Oct. 26. The sad news of the officer’s death brought many to tears, according to locals.
“I felt very bad,” said long-time Sheepshead Bay resident Ana Ramos. “Some days I cry.”
The five-year police department veteran was questioning someone about a bike theft when the man allegedly shot him in the head in Manhattan on Oct. 20.
The officer’s death has sparked debates over prison sentencing laws after news broke that a judge sentenced Holder’s alleged killer to a diversion program in lieu of jail time following a drug-peddling conviction last year.
Following Holder’s slaying, Mayor DeBlasio called for changes to state law to let judges consider extenuating factors — such as public safety risk — in setting an individual’s bail.
“The death of Officer Randolph Holder was a clear and tragic signal that we must ensure dangerous individuals with long criminal histories do not walk our streets,” Hizzoner said.
Precinct Captain Winston Faison and local politicians shared words of sorrow and bereavement for the loss of Officer Holder and commemorated his life and ultimate sacrifice during the evening vigil in Sheepshead Bay.
“Police officer Randolph Holder dedicated his life to protecting the people of this city,” said Councilman Chaim Deutsch (D–Sheepshead Bay). “It is important that we set aside a time to honor the sacrifices made by our law enforcement officers.”
