For Immediate Release Contact: Sgt. Matt Gard
December 26, 2018 mjgard@lafayette.in.gov
(765) 807-1223
Passing of Officer William “Bill” Meluch
The Lafayette Police Department is mourning the passing of one of our own. Officer William John Meluch passed away December 25th, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Bill has been a member of the LPD family since his hiring as an officer in January 2006. Bill’s journey to become a police officer started out with his volunteering as a VIP’s (Volunteers in Policing), which led to his hiring as a Lafayette police officer.
During Bill’s career as a police officer, he was actively involved in the Fraternal Order of Police, a member of the LPD Honor Guard, Bike Patrol Unit, and the Civil Disturbance Unit. Bill’s assignment during his career has been in the patrol division.
Bill’s passing marks the first time in decades that we have lost an active member of our department, and his outgoing personality and self-deprecating humor will be missed immensely. Bill was passionate about his desire to become a police officer, and had a strong desire to be a part of making a difference in the lives of those he came in contact with each and every day.
Bill was not only a dedicated police officer, but a good friend and someone who always found the time to listen and to make those around him laugh. Bill’s humility, courage, and selfless dedication to help others is an example for us all to follow.
We at the Lafayette Police Department extend our deepest sympathies to his family during this very painful time. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Chief Patrick Flannelly