[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 179 (Tuesday, November 13, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S6910]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING OFFICER DAVID TINSLEY

  Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize and honor the 
extraordinary service and sacrifice of Fort Wayne Police officer David 
Tinsley. His life was characterized by humility, selflessness, and 
commitment to his community.
  Born in Bloomington, IN, David graduated from Owen Valley High School 
in Spencer in 1986 before going on to earn a bachelor's degree from 
Ball State University. In 2002, David began his work as a police 
officer in Fort Wayne, receiving his southeast division second shift 
assignment shortly thereafter. In 2005, David switched to the overnight 
shift, continuing his law enforcement service. For 16 years, David 
valiantly put his life on the line as a member of the Fort Wayne Police 
Department to protect those in the Fort Wayne community.
  David is remembered fondly by his fellow officers. Fort Wayne Police 
Chief Steve Reed called him a ``cop's cop'' and, at David's funeral, 
told the many people gathered that David was looked up to by those in 
the department. Pastor Thomas Eggold recognized David's selflessness, 
his willingness to sacrifice his time and be of assistance. Pastor 
Eggold also called David quiet and soft-spoken, a sincere and humble 
man of God. David's friends knew him as caring and compassionate, a 
loyal and genuine friend, but also as a tough and courageous man. He 
enjoyed music and was taking lessons to learn to play the bagpipes.
  On Monday, September 10, 2018, David and an officer in training began 
pursuing what appeared to be a stolen vehicle. Eventually, the pair got 
out of the car and, with a police canine, searched the area on foot 
before arresting the suspect. On the way back to the squad car, David 
collapsed, suffering a heart attack, and died shortly thereafter.
  Known to be a loyal and loving father and husband who cared immensely 
for his family and beloved by many, David is survived by his wife 
Kristina Tinsley; his children, Tyler, Ian, and Lexie; parents Albert 
and Bonnie Tinsley; siblings, Albert, Lane, and Scott; and many other 
relatives and friends.
  Through his work as a Fort Wayne Police Department officer, David put 
the safety and well-being of his fellow Hoosiers above his own every 
day. He exemplified the very best of Hoosier values, and the Fort Wayne 
community is eternally grateful for his years of service keeping it 
safe. Let us honor the legacy he left for us and strive to emulate his 
commitment to serving his fellow citizens.

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