Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Thursday, October 21, 2021
Add to My HeroesRichard Charles Howe
Sergeant Rick Howe died from complications as the result of contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty.
Sergeant Howe had served with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for 24 years and was a Motorcycle Unit supervisor. He is survived by his wife, son, two daughters, and granddaughter.
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 51
- Tour 24 years
- Badge 3760
Incident Details
- Cause COVID19
- Incident Date Not available
Most Recent Reflection
View all 28 ReflectionsOn this the fourth anniversary of your death, your memory and your sacrifice is remembered and honored. Your legacy of service continues to inspire.
My cherished son Pittsburg Officer Larry Lasater was killed in the line of duty on April 24, 2005.
Time never diminishes respect.
Rest in Peace.
Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05
October 22, 2025
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