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Help Police Officer Derek Williams
A 19-Year Veteran Facing a Life-Altering Crisis
For 19 years, Police Officer Derek Williams served the City of Mount Vernon with unwavering dedication, integrity, and courage. Throughout his career, Derek answered the call, including during the worst global health crisis in a century.
In 2020, while tirelessly serving on the frontlines of the pandemic, Derek contracted COVID-19 after working double and triple shifts to support his department and community. Despite the relentless demands on his body, his commitment never wavered.
But the cost of that commitment became painfully clear.
His Health Crisis
After ordered back to work, before fully recovering, following his COVID illness, Derek began experiencing severe kidney problems. Over time, his kidneys failed, a condition that now requires dialysis therapy for nine hours a day, seven days a week, just to stay alive.
Doctors have since cleared him for light duty, including desk work that would allow him to continue contributing and maintain his benefits.
A Fight Against the Odds, and the System
Despite his doctor’s clearance and willingness to serve in a limited capacity, Derek’s request to return to work was denied by the Mount Vernon Police Department. This denial came even after his fellow officers and union advocated to allow him to continue working inside the department so he could earn the remaining time needed for his pension and health insurance.
Instead, Derek received a termination letter, effective December 31, 2025, just six months shy of qualifying for his reduced pension and lifelong health benefits that are critical to his survival.
This decision effectively strips Derek of income, insurance, and the dignity he’s earned through nearly two decades of faithful service. This decision is a death sentence.
Why This Matters
Losing his job isn’t just a career setback, it’s a life-or-death situation. Without health insurance and income, Derek can no longer afford the care and treatment that keep him alive. He is currently on the kidney transplant waiting list and has a pending application for a state disability pension, but these processes take time, time he may not have without urgent support.
Our Goal
We’re raising funds to help Derek with:
- Ongoing medical expenses (dialysis, specialist care, medications)
- Health insurance coverage
- Living expenses during his treatment and recovery
- Support while he continues to advocate for the pension he earned
Please — Every Dollar Helps
Officer Derek Williams dedicated his life to protecting our community. Now it’s our turn to protect him.
Donate, share, and stand with Derek. His fight has been courageous, and with your help, he can continue fighting to survive and regain stability.
The City of Mount Vernon and the leaders of the Mount Vernon Police Department have turned their backs on Derek. Please, let's show him the love and support he deserves.
❤️ Thank you in advance for your kindness, compassion, and support.
Watch the ABC News Story:
ABC7NY Eyewitness News on YouTube — Cop on dialysis and 6 months away from retirement terminated
Organizer and beneficiary
Derek Williams
Beneficiary