Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Erik, it has been 32 years and we once again gathered at 6am to remember you... some of the deputies gathered today were not born yet when you left us. It is incredible that so much time has passed since we parted after line-up, agreeing to meet for breakfast after the shift. My reminder to all that were gathered today was to appreciate those around you and to take care of each other. Appreciate every day that you have... there are no guarantees or routine calls. Stay safe.

Undersheriff Jason W. Mark
Dutchess County Sheriff's Office

October 9, 2024

I drove under the bridge named in your honor today. I felt compelled to look up your name. Sad such a young man taken too early. Thanks for your service and may you rest in peace.

Sal C

November 6, 2023

I cannot believe next year will mark 30 years since we lost Eric. I was a co-worker at the Sheriff's Department when the tragedy occurred. I remember meeting with Eric on patrol one night when he had a question to ask. Such a kind person. Always remembered and never forgotten.

Cpl Robert S Westfall
Toms River PD NJ

October 10, 2021

I was Erik's DT Instructor. Great, motivated student. I attended his funeral. It's always a sad day when we lose one of Our Own. My thoughts and prayers are with Erik's Family. He was taken way too soon. May he rest in peace. I was blessed to have known him, if only for a short time.

PO Robert Smutek
EFPD

October 12, 2020

It has been 26 years.... We will gather as we have for the past 25 years at graveside tomorrow at 6am to remember...hired the same day, through the Academy together and then A-Line....you will always be in my heart

Chief Deputy Jason W. Mark
Dutchess County Sheriff's Office

October 8, 2018

Rest In Peace Brother. Thank you and your family for your sacrifice and service.

Officer Mike Robinson, (Ret)
Upland Police Dept. CA

December 28, 2017

Happy 50th Birthday Erik - you are gone but not forgotten.
+ RIP +

Michael J. Brembs
Cousin

July 26, 2017

I visited you at the Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington DC today. You will never be forgotten.

Weronika Jeziorski

January 13, 2016

I said a little prayer today for Deputy Sheriff Renninger and his family. He may be gone but never forgotten. He will always be a New York HERO!

Robyn Wilkes

October 7, 2015

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 21st anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service.

My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

I pray for the solace of all that call you beloved for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen officer Larry Lasater

November 6, 2013

A true hero from New York. He is a direct descendent of Hans Matthias Heil.

Anonymous

May 22, 2010

You are not forgotten by the ones who love you.

Anonymous

January 18, 2009

You are deeply missed as a cousin and friend. It is hard to imagine that you are gone for so long, until we meet again in glory. Michael

Michael
Cousin

December 2, 2008

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

December 18, 2007

Erik, I miss you like crazy and the anniversary of your death has just passed. I can not believe that 15 yrs have passed by so quickly. I can remember how you were here like it was just yesterday. I am glad that you are remembered and that people still hold you in their hearts. I LOVE YOU and MISS YOU

Kim

Kim L. Renninger
Sister

October 19, 2007

On the anniversary of your death we remember you and thank you Sir for your service.

Pat Van Den Berghe, Manchester, NH
Neighbors for a Better Manchester, NHnv

October 9, 2007

Erik, I never met you, but as a former member of the DCSO, I say rest in peace brother.

Det. M. Ray
Davie P.D.

September 2, 2006

Rest in peace, Sir! You are not forgotten.

Police Officer

April 6, 2006

I grew up in Dutchess County. I am currently in the academy in Tucson, Az. I found out about this web page during the week. Thank You for protecting my friends and family that still live in New York.

William Fosmire
Pima County Sheriff's Department, AZ

December 2, 2005

Erik, I met you a long time ago on North Quaker lane when I was a volunteer firefighter and you were handling a traffic crash. I remember you being very professional and kind. The next time I saw you was at your funeral. You were a good cop and are missed. Rest in Peace brother, rest in peace.

Ofc. A. Cerino
Pembroke Pines Police, Florida

September 24, 2005

Erik, You have been a great help, and showed me great respect in my time of need. But thats what our brotherhood is all about. You will me missed and will always be in my prayers. May God bless you. Your fiiend always.

Joseph Colosimo Ret.
Fishkill Pd

February 5, 2004