After two Chicago police officers die by suicide within a two-week period, the brother of one of the officers speaks out about his grief in hopes of helping others.
Patricia Swank, who served as a Chicago police officer for more than six years, died on July 2. A second officer, Durand Lee, 42, died Friday. A third officer, a sergeant, was hospitalized after a suicide attempt and remains in serious condition, Chicago police said in a statement Saturday.
Swank, who went by the name “Patsy,” spent her days working in the city’s Englewood community.
Her brother said that Patsy loved being a police officer and dedicated her life to serving others.
“I wish I’d spoken up, but that’s the kind of person he was. He didn’t want to upset anyone else, burden anyone else,” said his brother, Ryan Clancy. “She always cared about what was going on in your life and what was going on with you. That just showed the heart that she had.”
Following the death of his sister, Clancy is pleading for more mental health assistance for the police.
“I do not deny that there are resources. But when you give someone resources, how can they use those resources? With 12-hour days, no days off, there is no time,” she said. “There have now been three officers in the last two weeks. I don’t see the officers doing anything about it.”
Patsy’s death leaves a hole in the hearts of her siblings, mother and 5-year-old son, as well as countless family members, friends and dear co-workers.
Patsy’s family hopes that sharing her story saves lives.
“For anyone listening to this, check on your loved ones. Because if I could have one day back with my sister, I’d trade it for anything,” Clancy said.
In a tweet on Sunday, the Chicago Police Department said, “We are in the midst of the most difficult and challenging time to be a police officer in this country. The well-being of officers and general mental health is our top priority.”
“Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Division of Career Counseling provide free and confidential programs to all active and retired members of the department and their families,” CPD added. “We stand with our officers.”
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by texting or calling 9-8-8.
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