In 1993, the 73rd Texas Legislature renamed the Law Enforcement
Management Institute in honor of State Representative Bill Blackwood (R-Mesquite).
Bill Blackwood, a graduate of Texas A&M University, served in the Texas Legislature
from 1984 through 1993. During this term, Representative Blackwood was a staunch
supporter of law enforcement. In 1991, he sponsored legislation providing
death benefits for the families of police officers killed in the line of duty.
And, in 1987, he sponsored legislation creating the Law Enforcement Management
Institute.
Representative Blackwood was diagnosed with cancer in 1991. Despite the advice
of his doctors, he remained active in the representation of the people in
District 101. Representative Blackwood passed away on June 25, 1993, shortly
after adjournment of the 73rd Regular Session. He was 56 years old. In March
1994, a representative from the LEMIT staff met with Mrs. Mary Blackwood,
widow of Bill Blackwood. At this meeting initial plans were discussed for
a formal ceremony dedicating LEMIT to the memory of Bill Blackwood. The ceremony
occurred on September 10, 1994. The Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management
Institute of Texas is dedicated to his vision, leadership, and friendship.
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