Posted on Friday 4 March 2022
A heroic officer who died while protecting the public has been remembered at a memorial service to mark the 40th anniversary of his death.
Detective Constable Jim Porter was tragically shot and killed whilst confronting suspects from an armed robbery in Woodhouses, Bishop Auckland, on March 4, 1982. He was just 31.
The service attended by his family, retired colleagues and serving officers was held at Durham Constabulary’s headquarters in Durham, today (Friday, March 4).
The Police Memorial Trust, which organised the event in consultation with DC Porter’s family and Durham Constabulary, also unveiled a memorial plaque at the service, which will be erected in Woodhouses later this year.
In a statement, DC Porter’s family said: “The death of Jim left a massive hole in our lives, and 40 years on this has not changed.
“He had his whole life ahead of him when he was taken from us.
“He loved his job, and his actions show the kind of courageous man he was. He would do anything to protect people but sadly made the ultimate sacrifice.
“It has been an emotional day, but we are grateful to have this opportunity to remember Jim with today’s service.”
Deputy Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary, Dave Orford, who spoke at the service, said: “The actions of DC Jim Porter that day went beyond the call of duty and were a testament to his dedication to being a police officer.
“I am truly honoured to have been invited to this service and I think it is only fitting that we celebrate him in this way.
“He made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the public and whilst none of his colleagues are serving officers anymore, there is no doubt that Jim and his courageous actions will never be forgotten at Durham Constabulary.”
Joy Allen, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “DC Porter made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It is only right that we should remember this.
“It reminds us all of the dangers police officers and staff face in their work to keep us safe and prevent crime.
Geraldine Winner, chairwoman of the Police Memorial Trust, said: “My thoughts are with DC Porter’s family and colleagues as they mark this sobering anniversary.”
“As a trust we are pleased to commemorate DC Porter’s bravery here today.
“We know our memorial will prove to his loved ones that his service and sacrifice has not and will not be forgotten by the wider police family.”