The Wyoming Legislature took a little time out from its busy schedule negotiating the state budget Friday to honor fallen Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Paul Krinkee, who was killed in the line of duty Tuesday while attempting to serve a trespass warning.
The legislative resolution to “honor the life, service and legacy” of Krinkee, 33, isn’t legally binding as it isn’t an official bill, but will be entered into the official House Journal record for Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. These daily records are maintained permanently by the state of Wyoming.
State Rep. Cyrus Western, R-Ranchester, read the resolution to the House late Friday afternoon, drawing a standing ovation. He invited all 63 members of the House to sign the resolution, which also will be considered in the Senate.
“It takes a certain type of bravery to walk the thin blue line, and it is our solemn duty to honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty,” Western told Cowboy State Daily. “Sergeant Krinkee must be forever memorialized and honored for the highest sacrifice an officer can make.”
Sens. Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan, and Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, organized the resolution.
“The tragic loss of Sergeant Krinkee is felt across our entire state,” Driskill said in a Friday press release. “We are grateful to our men and women who serve in law enforcement, who every day put their lives in harm’s way protect us and keep us safe.
“We are proud to honor Sergeant Krinkee and all those who serve. They have the full respect and support of the Wyoming Legislature.”
Rep. Ken Pendergraft, R-Sheridan, said he's "proud to have had the opportunity to take part in honoring such a selfless public servant and his ultimate sacrifice. I further recognize the immeasurable sacrifice of his family and friends. He shall not be forgotten."
Blue Ribbons
Many legislators also wore small blue ribbons on their lapels Friday to further honor Krinkee.
House Speaker Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale, said the Legislature is thinking of and praying for Krinkee's family and hope they will find some comfort knowing the legacy of sacrifice he leaves behind.
“We never expect this kind of senseless violence to strike in Wyoming,” Sommers said in the press release. “We owe a debt of gratitude to our law enforcement and first responders, who put our safety ahead of their own. Sergeant Krinkee embodied that bravery and dedication to the fullest. He served our state admirably."
Sommers told Cowboy State Daily that it’s important to take time out from the legislative schedule for recognitions like these.
“Even though we're meeting (in Cheyenne) and doing all this, we really feel it here in our communities,” he said. “Our hearts are heavy because of this.”
Who Was Krinkee?
Krinkee died in front of a home in Sheridan when William Lowery, 46, reportedly shot him to death, then fled the scene. The suspect later took cover in a house and was killed trying to flee from the house 32 hours later after a prolonged standoff.
Krinkee leaves behind an infant at home with his wife, Karla, also an officer with the Sheridan Police Department.
According to the resolution, Krinkee graduated from high school in Montana in 2009 and then joined the U.S. Army, serving in the 82nd Airborne Division. He eventually rose to the rank of staff sergeant and was honorably discharged in 2017.
During his service, Krinkee earned multiple commendations, including an Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and Jumpmaster Wings, according to the resolution.
After military service, he joined the Sheridan Police Department in 2017, and was quickly promoted to the rank of corporal and then patrol sergeant.
He was also well known for the community service he performed as an officer, helping out at local schools.
More Coverage
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Leo Wolfson can be reached at leo@cowboystatedaily.com.
