THE FAMILY PARTY  
www.familyparty.org.nz  

Press Statement for Release 

11 Sept 08

Family Party laments loss of fallen officer

Former South Auckland sergeant and Family Party leader Richard Lewis, and the candidate for Mangere, Galumalemana Jerry Filipaina, extend their heartfelt condolences to the family of slain police officer, Sergeant Don Wilkinson.

"It has been an incredibly difficult day for the entire Mangere and South Auckland community. But none will be hurting more than the family of Sergeant Wilkinson and the NZ Police. Our heart and prayers go out to them," says Mr Lewis.

He says this tragedy stands to highlight for all New Zealanders, the daily risks police officers face on the frontlines. And that their commitment to keep communities safe should never be taken for granted.

"These wonderful men and women front up faithfully knowing the ever increasing dangers of frontline work. But they do it because of that calling to keep families and communities safe. Sergeant Wilkinson has paid the ultimate price for his country in fighting the war on drugs and gangs. This is the tragic and sad reality of policing today," he added.  

ENDS

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