Holly MatkinWashington, DC – DC Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Officer Millard Pitts died unexpectedly on July 17, according to his department.
The 51-year-old officer’s exact cause of death was not released.
Officer Pitts joined the MPD in May of 2003 and devoted the next 19 years of his life to serving his community, the department said in a press release the following day.
He was assigned to the MPD’s First District, where he filled a variety of roles during his nearly two decades of service, the DC Police Union said in a Facebook post.
Officer Pitts also served as a DC Police Union shop steward, “ensuring our members’ rights were always protected,” the union noted.
“Please keep Officer Pitts’ family in your thought and prayers,” the police union said.
MPD Chief Robert Contee said the veteran officer’s “countless years of dedication” to the department and the community “will not go unrecognized.”
“My hope is that others like myself had the opportunity to know and work with him,” Chief Contee said. “He was a dedicated law enforcement professional who devoted his life to the profession. Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the family, friends and colleagues who are grieving his loss.”
The MPD described Officer Pitts as a “kindhearted, generous and caring person.”
“He would always have time to chat with you and make sure you were okay,” the police department said. “His caring words and kind gestures will never be forgotten.”
Officer Pitts leaves behind his wife, as well as his mother and his siblings.
Hundreds of people offered their condolences in response to the DC Police Union’s announcement of the longtime officer’s death.
“I will always remember him for his dedication and hard work,” one message read. “I will keep his family lifted in prayer! He was truly one of good guys!”
MPD regrets to announce the passing of Officer Millard Pitts of the 1st District. "Pitts" served the DC community for 19 years and will be greatly missed. He will always be remembered for his caring words and kind gestures. 💙
Release: https://t.co/YR3ZghLMCF pic.twitter.com/DLa7tBl5ks
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) July 18, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of DC Metropolitan Police Department Officer Millard Pitts, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
