SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 11, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The TASER Foundation for Fallen Officers today announced it has now provided more than $2,000,000 in direct financial assistance to families of fallen officers over the past four years. With the issuance of today's grant for Deputy Sheriff Marty M. Martin, who was lost in the line of duty on September 6, 2008 as a result of an auto accident, the TASER Foundation has now provided 572 grants since its inception in November 2004.
"The loss of Deputy Martin poignantly illustrates that we must continue to support the families of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," said Gerry Hills, Executive Director of the TASER Foundation. "The TASER Foundation's mission is to honor these fallen heroes by providing financial and educational support to their families in their immediate time of need. Our goal is to provide assistance that acts as a bridge between an officer's income and their long-term benefits."
"The law enforcement community is thankful to TASER International for the concern shown for the death of officers," said Sheriff James Karnes, Franklin County Sheriff Columbus (Ohio). "It's a traumatic time for everyone involved, and the funds for the families are graciously appreciated."
Grants are made payable directly to the officer's beneficiary, but coordinated through the officer's department to ensure the family's privacy. In most cases, a grant request is processed within 24 hours of receipt. The funds may be used at the families' discretion to address their immediate needs.
TASER International, Inc (Nasdaq:TASR) bears all the administrative costs for the TASER Foundation, with 100 percent of donations to the Foundation going directly to the families. The public can help support The TASER Foundation mission for these fallen heroes by donating on-line at www.TASERFoundation.org.
About the TASER Foundation
The TASER Foundation for Fallen Officers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with tax exempt status from the IRS. It was established in November 2004 with the mission to honor the service and sacrifice of local and federal law enforcement officers in the United States and Canada lost in the line of duty by providing financial support to their families. It is the only organization that provides direct financial benefits to families of fallen officers from federal, state/province, county, and local law enforcement organizations in the United States and Canada.
For further information contact Gerry Hills, Executive Director of the TASER Foundation at Gerry@TASER.com or call 602-326-6176. Visit the TASER Foundation website at www.TASERFoundation.org for facts and video.
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