Mayor Emanuel, Chicago Police Department honor star of fallen police officer Clifton Lewis

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy and the Chicago Police Department today honored fallen officer Clifton Lewis, star #4103, who died in the line of duty on December 29, 2011 at the age of 41.

"Officer Lewis dedicated his life to service and upheld the greatest ideals of society and law enforcement," said Mayor Emanuel. "As we honor Officer Lewis' commitment, professionalism, and ultimate sacrifice by encasing his star, we also commend the countless sacrifices police officers make daily to ensure our communities are safe and secure," he added.

On December 29, 2011, Officer Lewis was working off-duty at a convenience store when armed offenders entered the store and committed a robbery. During the commission of the offense, one of the offenders fired several shots, fatally striking Officer Lewis.

"Officer Clifton Lewis served and protected the public with the utmost courage, integrity, and dedication, and was an exemplary model of excellence for his colleagues," said Superintendent McCarthy. "The City and the Chicago Police Department is honored and proud to forever count Officer Lewis as one of our own and we will never forget him or the fallen heroes whose stars rest in this memorial," he added.

Officer Lewis was an 8-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department and assigned to the Austin (15th) District, where he served on the District's tactical team. Prior to this assignment, Officer Lewis served and protected communities in the Chicago Lawn (8th) and Harrison (11th) Districts.

Officer Lewis' career was highlighted by a distinguished record of service marked by numerous achievements.

Throughout his exemplary career, Officer Lewis earned 81 awards. Among these notable accomplishments were 70 honorable mentions and four department commendations. Officer Lewis also was recognized for crime reduction efforts. He is survived by his daughter, mother, and fiancée.

Officer Lewis' star will be the 483rd star placed in the Honored Star Case located in the lobby of the Chicago Public Safety Headquarters building (formerly Chicago Police Headquarters). The Honored Star Case contains the stars of every Chicago Police officer who has died in the line of duty.