On October 20, 2023, Patrol K9 Handler Nicholas Davis, a valued CPOF member and respected member of the River North correctional community, took his own life. The loss of Nicholas was a heartbreaking reminder of the mental and emotional toll carried silently by so many who serve in corrections.

Nicholas was more than his badge — he was a son, a dedicated officer, and a K9 handler known for his commitment and loyalty. His unexpected passing left his family, particularly his mother, overwhelmed with grief and the burden of burial expenses. In the wake of this tragedy, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) was honored to step in and offer immediate financial assistance through our Catastrophic Assistance Program.

This program exists for moments just like this — when families of correctional professionals face crisis and hardship. CPOF’s support helped ease the financial strain of funeral costs so that Nicholas’s family could focus on grieving and remembering their loved one with dignity.

But we also know that our mission cannot stop at financial aid. We must continue shining a light on the emotional and psychological stress correctional staff endure. Nicholas’s passing reminds us how critical it is to not only recognize the signs of distress but to actively provide support for those who may feel isolated, hopeless, or overwhelmed.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone. Resources are available, and asking for help is a sign of strength — not weakness.

Support and Resources:

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988

• CPOF Catastrophic Assistance Program: Visit www.cpof.org or contact our office for assistance.

• First Responder Support Network: www.frsn.org – Peer support for correctional and first responder personnel.

• Code Green Campaign: www.codegreencampaign.org – Mental health advocacy and resources for corrections and public safety professionals.

• COPLINE: www.copline.org – COPLINE is a hotline exclusively for current and former Law Enforcement personnel and their families.

To Nicholas’s family, friends, and coworkers: We grieve with you. And to all correctional professionals across the country, please know that CPOF stands ready to support you — not just in tragedy, but in life.

If you need help, please reach out. Your life matters, your service matters, and you are never alone.