Alabama Rep. Stephen Sims took his own life during an anti-sex trafficking training session, leaving his colleagues shocked and mourning.
Alabama Rep. Stephen Sims took his own life this week during a police training event on sex trafficking.
The Elmore County Sheriff's Office identified Sims as one of their own and expressed deep sorrow for the loss. Sheriff Bill Franklin, in an interview with a local media WVTMexpressed shock at Sims' death, describing him as a “great guy.”
Sims, a 43-year-old father of four, had been a dedicated member of county law enforcement, according to the Elmore County Sheriff's Office.
Prattville Police Chief Mark Thompson shared his feelings with WSFAsaying, “He was one of the people who took care of his friends. I'll give you the shirt he takes off.”
Thompson further revealed the family connection and mentioned, “Sometimes he would joke and call me dad. But yeah, it was just a close relationship with the whole Thompson family.”
The incident unfolded during a lunch break, when Sims took a break with his three colleagues. Upon his return, everyone exited the vehicle except Sims. It was at that moment that a gunshot was heard and Sims was found shot to death in the back of his own vehicle.
The coroner later confirmed that the fatal wound was self-inflicted.
Covenant Rescue Group, the organizers of the anti-sex trafficking training event, issued a statement expressing their condolences to Sims' family. The statement clarified that the officer's death was unrelated to the class's training, emphasizing the personal struggles that can affect even those who actively participate in critical community initiatives.
