Memorial To Fallen Police Officers Defaced In Darien

DARIEN, CT — A stone monument to fallen police officers, which rests in front of Darien police headquarters on Hecker Avenue, was defaced this week, and police are asking for the public's help in identifying those responsible.

Some sort of wax "paintballs" were shot at the monument, which commemorates and memorializes the line of duty deaths of two Darien police officers, Officer William E. Bowman and Officer Kenneth E. Bateman, Jr. Bowman was killed on Nov. 18, 1927, and Bateman was killed on May 31, 1981.

The vandalism was discovered on Tuesday, according to police Chief Don Anderson.

"This act is completely abhorrent and defies any sense of reasonable or lawful conduct," Anderson said in a statement. "The department is fully aware of the ongoing protests around the country concerning various monuments and statues. The defacing of this memorial, erected to honor and remember officers who gave their lives in service to the Town of Darien, is shocking to the conscience and completely deplorable."

The department has launched an investigation, which includes reviewing any available surveillance video. Anderson also asks for the public's help in finding the perpetrators of the "cowardly and malicious act."

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Darien Police Department Detective Division at 203-662-5330.

Additionally, anonymous tips can be posted at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending a text to "CRIMES" (274637) with the keyword darientips from a mobile device. All calls will be kept confidential.