Yuma’s Chief of Police to retire, raising money for monument

After nearly 33 years on the force, Yuma’s Chief of Police, John Lekan will be retiring, according to the Yuma Police Departement.

Before Lekan’s retirement, he is raising money to build the Fallen Officer’s Monument. The project is something the Fraternal Order of Police, Yuma Lodge, has been working on tirelessly.

According to YPD, 36 law enforcement officers have lost their lives while serving and they will all be memorialized at the FOM when constructed at the Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex.

Chief Lekan officially will retire on March 29 and is requesting no money be spent on plaques, no gifts, solely monetary donations towards the fund.

Chief Lekan stated, “This monument is unfinished business during my watch… I am honored to be in a position to move the Fallen Officer’s Monument closer to completion…to providing a place worthy of those who have died protecting Yuma and the surrounding area… I need your help to make this a reality.”

The FOP has collected nearly $40,000 and $60,000 is needed.

Chief Lekan is calling out the community, clubs, businesses, schools, his friends and family and local law enforcement to help him in his final pursuit.

Here’s how the public can get involved. Come with your money or checks in hand to these fun events!

Chief gives Kisses for Cash (Hershey Kisses of course!)

Valentine’s Day, February 14 th , 2019

Yuma Police Department

11am-1pm

Lock up the Chief (the more money you give the longer he stays locked up)

March 14 th , 2019

Yuma Regional Palms Center roundabout

11am-1pm

Chief’s Final Retirement Farewell Open House (the community is welcome to stop by and say so long… and to support the Fallen Officer’s Monument)

March 27th, 2019

Yuma Police Department

9am-5pm

If you cannot attend these events, you can still help by mailing checks to:

FOP Yuma Lodge #24

P.O. Box 6283

Yuma, AZ 85366

In memo is written: Yuma Lodge Monument Fund (Chief Lekan)

or tax-deductible donations can be made through the AZ FOP State Foundation by mailing a check to:

Arizona FOP Foundation, Inc.

2510 E 11 th Street

Douglas, AZ 85607

In memo area write: Yuma Lodge Memorial Fund (Chief Lekan)

(add Chief Lekan in www.lodge24.azfop.com Donors can also contribute online at note ) and donations are tax deductible.