Criminal justice students, faculty and staff step up for fallen officer
Thousands of people turned out for a fundraiser honoring alum David Glasser who was killed in the line of duty last week. The Phoenix Police officer was shot by a suspected 20-year old gunman May 18th. He died from his wounds the next day. Glasser is a 2004 graduate of ASU’s criminal justice program at ASU West in Glendale. The department is now the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice located in downtown Phoenix.
News of his death saddened faculty, staff and students in the school. But many jumped at the chance to help honor Glasser and raise money for his family.
The Phoenix Enforcement Association, the union that represents rank and file police officers, held a barbeque Tuesday at its headquarters just west of downtown Phoenix. Officers needed help setting up for the event and preparing food.
Rachel La Vine is normally meeting with students this time of year, suggesting coursework for criminology and criminal justice majors for the fall semester. This week, La Vine and other staffers, students and faculty spent time over two days helping the police union set up for the event.
“It’s not about us, its not meant to make us feel good,” says La Vine. “But it’s a way that we can help, kind of respond to our calling as a college to serve the public and to show our support for communities in need.”
Phoenix Police Lieutenant Wayne Dillon was one of hundreds of officers and deputies that came to the fundraiser. Dillon served with Glasser in the Maryvale precinct. He’s appreciative of the support from first responders and the communities they serve.
“This is all the brothers and sisters in blue and red—meaning fire department—coming together with the community to show their support for police in general and specifically for David Glasser and his family,” says Dillon. “Our hope is that the Glasser family and the children never have to worry about anything financial.”
Glasser’s extended family was present at the barbeque and appreciated the turnout.
“Awesome. Absolutely awesome,” is how one cousin summed up the event.
La Vine returned to the fundraiser Tuesday afternoon to buy a $20 tee shirt, but found they were sold out. Tee shirts can be purchased online, but must be picked up in person at a later date. Donations are also being accepted at any National Bank of Arizona branch with account no. 579-367-2444.
The income generated from donations, tee shirt sales, the BBQ and other events will help Glasser’s widow and two children.
“I think it’s just a matter of doing for her what I would want done for me or my family,” La Vine says. “And just knowing that there is support there. Here’s a bunch of strangers pouring out love and compassion.”