Governor Orders Flags Lowered in Honor of Law Enforcement Officer

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin issued a proclamation on Thursday, Feb. 23, ordering all U.S. and state flags displayed at all state facilities be displayed at half-staff from dawn until dusk on Friday, Feb. 24, 2012, the day of services for law enforcement officer, Sergeant Michael Todd May, who died in the line of duty on Feb. 18, 2012.

"Our law enforcement officers' commitment to duty ensures our safety and security," said Gov. Tomblin in a press release posted on the web site of the Office of the Governor. "We have lost a courageous officer whose dedication earned him the respect of the community, fellow law enforcement officers and many citizens across our state. Sergeant May's bravery, in the face of danger, is an example to all and a reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face daily. Joanne and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Sergeant May."

A graduate of Morgantown High School, May attended Fairmont State University, where he pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. At Fairmont State, he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He later graduated from the West Virginia State Police Academy in Institute, W.Va.

After working briefly at the Eastern Regional Corrections facility and the Berkeley County Sherriff's Department, May began his career with the Monongalia County Sheriff's Department in Morgantown, W.Va. In his role at the department, May was assigned as a leader on its Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, a shift supervisor and earned the rank of Sergeant. May died in the line of duty while responding to a call to assist fellow officers in a police pursuit.

Criminal JusticeGov. Earl Ray TomblinSgt. Michael Todd MayTau Kappa Epsilon