In Memory of Police Officer Anastasio Tsakos
New York Officer Killed by Drunk Driver
With such significant losses to police departments everywhere due to COVID19, when a tragedy occurs that could have been prevented that causes a loss, it can devastate the department’s morale. Police Officer Anastasio Tsakos died on Tuesday, April 27, 2021, due to the actions of a drunk driver. New York authorities were disheartened to have to brief the public of such a senseless loss.
Officer Tsakos had responded to the scene of an accident. There had been a fatal automobile crash on the Long Island Expressway. Tsakos had arrived to assist at the scene while there was an investigation and clearing of debris. Tsakos took the lead to direct traffic around the incident.
While redirecting traffic, a 2013 Volkswagen lurched forward, driven by a 32-year-old woman. She swerved wildly to avoid collision with other vehicles and, in doing so, struck Officer Tsakos as he stood near his patrol vehicle. Life-saving procedures began immediately, and Officer Tsakos was rushed to New York’s Presbyterian Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The woman that had hit officer Tsakos fled the scene. She was later apprehended and found to have been driving while intoxicated and with a suspended driver’s license. She was immediately placed under arrest. The drunk woman was taken to jail and faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, reckless endangerment, leaving the scene of a deadly accident, and driving while intoxicated.
Officer Tsakos had served the people of New York City as a law enforcement officer since 2014. His most recent assignment was with Highway Unit 3.
New York City Police Department
The NYPD is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States and the largest. The current chief is Terance Monahan. He is the highest officer in New York state. Monahan is also considered the one who is responsible for the department’s day-to-day work and assigned activities. The department is the largest law enforcement agency in the United States, with approximately 36,000 sworn officers on the payroll.
The department has a long history dating back to when it was first established as a municipal police department in 1845. It wasn’t long after that the city’s Mayor, William Havemeyer, coined the still well-loved phrase “New York City’s Finest.”
The ‘Finest’ men and women of the NYPD have many ways to give back to the community outside of their regular police duties. They are affiliated with both the New York City Police Foundation and the New York City Police Museum. In 1971, the foundation was brought about by officers, civic leaders, and the business community. The idea was to become an additional resource to enforce and strengthen the department and improve public safety. This organization and New York’s Finest set an example for cities all across the United States. One of the most outstanding achievements of working directly with the community through this foundation was establishing the Real-Time Crime Center. This top-notch technologically advanced center gives the NYPD details to identify crime patterns and stop new crimes from occurring.
Remembrances
Tsakos was taken from his family and police department through the actions of a drunk driver. It is never easy to lose someone too soon. Tsakos was 43 years old and had many years ahead.
Police Officer Anastasio Tsakos leaves behind his wife and two children, ages six and three.
Brother of Officer Tsakos, Teddy Tsakos, commented on the shock of the loss. “He didn’t deserve this. He just bought a house. He was starting his life. He was doing good. Everything was cut short. That’s it.”
The NYPD announced the loss via their Facebook page. “Killed by an intoxicated driver early this morning, NYPD Highway Police Officer Anastasios Tsakos loved his wife, two young children, and the city he was dedicated to protecting for the past 14 years. As the NYPD and NYC mourn this tragic loss, we make a solemn vow to never forget Anastasios.”
