Fellow officers raise funds for James Poindexter

It has been more than two years since officer James Poindexter’s tragic motorcycle accident. He suffered a spinal cord injury that left him quadrapalegic. Now, he’s encountered another obstacle – he no longer has insurance coverage for his medical expenses. Tonight, friends and family are pulling support from the community with a spaghetti dinner that began this evening.

James also worked with 7News, he was the Crimestoppers Officer when he had his accident. His fellow officers say when James was injured, they not only lost a great officer – they almost lost a friend. Many officers say James Poindexter was an extraordinary officer. He made great things happen – he carried the Crimestoppers program, he started the Citizens Patrol Academy, he was a member of the SWAT Team…and, that just to name a few of his accomplishments.

His friend Michael Johnson says he was full of life. “[He had] so much to offer the citizens of Lawton. The energy he has, the people he knows…we miss him so,” he says. Officers who know him best, though, know he’s a fighter and an inspiration to them. Poindexter has never given up despite his life changing injuries. His friends say his faith keeps inspires them to keep going, while James battles every day.

“It’s just not the same without him here. I wish he was here now so I could work beside him,” says Lt. Troy Morris of the Lawton Police Department. Brent Yarbrough eventually took over Crimestoppers, and he knows how well liked and respected Poindexter was. “Get phone calls about him every day,” he says. “Everybody misses him…great guy. Hard shoes to fill.” Deputy Chief Johnson says he wants citizens of Lawton to see Poindexter as a survivor. “For James, he’s so well liked – and loved – , you can’t forget him,” he says.

James’ mother says although he realizes he will probably never walk again, he keeps a positive attitude.

If you would like to help James Poindexter with a charitable donation, his friends and family have organized a Benefit Spaghetti Dinner. It’s happening right now at the VFW Post 52-63 on Northeast 20th Street. James Poindexter also has a bank account in his name. If you would like to make a donation, drop into any City National Bank and make a deposit in his name.

There will also be a fundraiser Saturday, April 5, from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. at Centenary Methodist Church, 704 SW D Avenue in Lawton. They will serve homemade pizza slices, salad, dessert, and drink at a cost of $15 for adults, $5 for children 4-12 and children 3 years and under eat free. Take out will be available.