Chicago Unveils Bronze Statue Honoring Fallen Officer Ella French

A bronze statue honoring fallen Chicago Police Officer Ella French was unveiled at Wentworth Park on what would have been her 34th birthday, bringing together community members, law enforcement, and French's family in a heartfelt tribute. French, who was killed during a traffic stop in 2021, is depicted kneeling with her dog Bella, symbolizing her well-known compassion for animals and her habit of rescuing stray dogs while on duty. The statue, created by artist Erik Blome, was placed near the Wentwoof Dog Park, a site French frequently visited with Bella, and was chosen over renaming a local animal care center to better reflect her personality and legacy. Elizabeth French, Ella's mother, expressed profound emotion during the ceremony, highlighting the statue as not only a tribute to Ella but also to all officers who have died in the line of duty. The event also featured speeches emphasizing community support for police officers and encouraging animal adoption in Ella's memory. Additionally, the non-profit Light the Line, founded by French's family, continues to support on-duty officers and the children of Chicago police officers through scholarships and honorary dedications.