The tragic death of police officer Arina Koltsová is a sobering reminder of the inherent risks to which law enforcement officers are exposed while performing their duties. Her untimely death, attributed to contracting tuberculosis from a suspect who spat in her face during an arrest, underscores the unpredictable dangers facing those who dedicate their lives to maintaining law and order.
Thirty-five-year-old police officer Arina Koltsová was fulfilling her duties on New Year’s when she found herself in a terrible situation. She was in the process of arresting a suspect when the unthinkable happened – a violent act of spitting that ended up being fatal. At the time of the incident, neither Policewoman Kolts nor her colleagues were aware that the suspect had tuberculosis, a contagious respiratory disease.
Kolts remained untreated for a while until she passed out one day at work. She was subsequently diagnosed with TB and began treatment.
Officer Mikhail Kindrakevich, who was her partner on duty, told the Daily Mail that she “became ill after the New Year”. “This man spat in her face after she restrained him. She later passed out. She was under medical care. She endured chemotherapy, received IV nutrition and lost significant weight.”
Koltsova died and was buried in Kiev two days later.
Koltsova’s police department posted on social media that “this is an irreplaceable loss for the entire Kyiv police force, beautiful memories of Arina will remain in our hearts forever.”
One of her friends wrote: “Arina wanted to make a difference for our country.” She decided to go to the police on purpose because she wanted to make things better.
It is not known whether Kolts had a drug-resistant form of tuberculosis or whether she was not diagnosed quickly enough for effective treatment. It is also unknown if the suspect in Kolts’ death will be charged. According to the National Institutes of Health, tuberculosis can be treated with antibiotics for six to twelve months. Some cases may be drug-resistant and not easily treated.
The question of whether the suspect responsible for spitting on Officer Kolts will face charges related to her death is legally complex. Determining guilt in such cases can be complex, often involving an assessment of the suspect’s knowledge of his medical condition, the intent behind his actions, and the exact cause of death. It is a decision that will ultimately fall within the purview of the legal system.
In conclusion, the tragic loss of police officer Arina Kolts is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by police officers around the world. Her story highlights the unpredictable nature of their profession and the inherent risks they face on a daily basis. Officer Kolts’ dedication to her role as a peacekeeper, her determination to effect positive change, and her bravery in the face of adversity are a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who choose a career in law enforcement. Her memory lives on as a reminder of the sacrifices made by officers like her, who stand resolutely in the face of danger to protect and serve their communities.