THE POLICE CROSS

POLICE OFFICER ROBERT A. KOZMINSKI

Grand Rapids Police Department

July 8, 2007, Grand Rapids Police Officer Robert Kozminski made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life in the line of duty while investigating a domestic-related felonious assault.  On this early morning call for help, Officer Kozminski responded as a senior officer to help guide younger officers in a potentially-difficult situation.  The caller reported a man with a shotgun, inside his residence, threatening to kill his family.

Officer Kozminski arrived at the home and took charge of the scene.  His first thoughts were for the safety and well being of the family placed into harm’s way by an armed and dangerous person, as well as the safety of his fellow officers.  As he worked to keep the situation under control and get all the innocents safely away, Officer Kozminski, having been told the suspect was in the house, went to the rear to insure its security.  While there, Officer Kozminski apparently startled the gunman, who ambushed him.  The gunman later admitted to knowingly shooting Officer Kozminski, having been angry with the officer for being outside his place of concealment.  After his cold-blooded and merciless attack, the gunman surrendered to other officers. 

Grand Rapids Police Officer Robert A. Kozminski gave his life as the ultimate sacrifice for his commitment to the safety of innocents in harm’s way and the protection and guidance of his fellow officers.  His sacrifice, and his family’s sacrifice, will not be forgotten, and for this Officer Kozminski is posthumously awarded the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police’s The Police Cross.