Thank you, Jim

by Candy Priano



From unimaginable grief, a hope for change: Jim's mission
Tulsa, Oklahoma Police Capt. Travis Yates talks about Jim.
Dad who pushed for safer police chases dies, Orlando Sentinel

My Friend

Jim Phillips founded PursuitWatch.org for many reasons, but one reason stands out above all others. That reason is a father's love for his daughter. Jim's innocent daughter, Sarah, was killed in a police chase in Florida on Dec. 13, 2001.

Today, Feb. 3, 2006, Orange County (Florida) Sheriff Chief Steve Jones called me to say that Jim passed away this morning. Earlier this year, Jim had heart surgery. This morning he was having trouble breathing and was taken to the hospital where he died. Jim and I shared many e-mails. Most of those e-mails were about police pursuits, but one thing always came through loud and clear: Jim loved his family and adored his beautiful wife Patti. My prayers are with Jim and his family.

Jim sent the first e-mail to let me know that he understood — really understood — the pain of having a daughter die in such a violent way. What I cannot remember is how many times Jim and I said simultaneously, "I just wish we had met under different circumstances."