New Bedford Police Officer Recovering from Accident and COVID-19

David Raymond is a New Bedford native and is employed as a New Bedford Police Officer. His nomination for the Spotlight Frontline Heroes Program came to us anonymously. The submission addressed his obstacles in 2020

“Dave is normally assigned to NBPD Station Two on the 4 pm to midnight shift. In the middle of the COVID-19 Pandemic on June 25, 2020, Officer Raymond was struck by a vehicle. He was on foot directing traffic while on duty and responding to a call for service down by East Beach. Officer Raymond suffered serious injuries, including a fractured skull, an epidural hematoma (brain bleed), a knee injury, as well as road rash all over his body. Officer Raymond had and still has a long road to a full recovery. He has undergone different physical therapies and countless doctor’s appointments all while simultaneously pushing through the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The nominator described Raymond’s work ethic before the accident that made it impossible to perform his duties until he was recovered.

“Prior to being struck on duty, Officer Raymond was a big detail and overtime guy. Working 80-hour weeks serving the residents of the City of New Bedford and providing for his family. All of that came to a screeching halt on June 25.”

Raymond was eager to get back to work after all of the effort made to recovery. He was cleared to head back to work, light-duty, in January. However, another obstacle would prevent itself before that could happen.

“Nearly seven months after his accident, he tested positive for COVID-19. Just three days before his first scheduled workday. Pushing him back two more weeks and just about adding the cherry on top.”

Officer Raymond quarantined, recovered from COVID, and has since returned to working light duty. He is still waiting for the doctor’s clearance to return back to work full duty.

“Officer Raymond and his family have had a long, tough year. But are determined to make 2021 their year. Despite it all, Officer David Raymond has remained positive, strong, and carried on. We love him and thank him for his service to our city!”

Thank you, David, for all you do day in and day out.

If you would like to shine a light on the essential workers in your life, click HERE to nominate them for the Spotlight SouthCoast Frontline Heroes program. Let everyone know what this past year has been like for them and how proud you are to know them. This program is made possible thanks to our sponsors, Prima Care and Bay State Window & Door.