JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Fraternal Order of Police is making a major donation to one of their own. Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud, who was critically injured in the line of duty, is receiving the organization’s largest donation to date – a check to pay off his mortgage.
The Fraternal Order of Police honored Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud with a surprise check of over 142 thousand dollars to pay off his mortgage.
“I just can’t put it into words how appreciative I am with this opportunity. Like I said, to have another burden that I don’t have to worry about anymore,” Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud said.
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Action News Jax told you in March 2023 when Daricaud and other officers were conducting a door knock to follow up on a traffic incident, involving a 32-year-old suspect. As soon as the door was opened, police investigators say the suspect opened fire, shooting Daricaud in the neck.
Officer Daricaud was given a Purple Heart last year for his bravery.
“They’ve continued to support me and my entire family through this journey,” Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud said.
And that journey has not been easy for him. He suffered an extensive spinal cord injury and spent over 400 days in Brooks Rehabilitation.
“I’m also dealing with nerve damage. I’m still working with my doctor to see how much progress I’ll get back,” Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud said.
“Thank you to Mrs. Daricaud for your selfless dedication to your husband,” Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters.
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Mr. Daricaud said his wife and son are what keeps him going.
“She’s just extremely great as far as everything she’s done for me,” Jacksonville Officer Malik Daricaud said.
President of the Fraternal Order of Police, Randy Reaves, says their mission is to be a source of financial security for officers.
“Because the sacrifice that they give this community is, they’re never paid enough for it,” President of the Fraternal Order of Police said.
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“Once again congratulations Malik, we love you, man,” Jacksonville Sheriff TK Waters.
Officer Daricaud has been working in the JSO’s Real-Time Crime Center, continuing his dedication to public safety in a new way.
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