NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WJAR) — A new memorial honors a North Kingstown police officer who died by suicide months after joining the department, as her family and fellow officers encourage open conversations about mental health.
A tree and bench outside the North Kingstown Animal Shelter now stand in memory of Brittany Dougal, who died in March.
Seven months later, her parents hope sharing her story will encourage others to seek support.
“If you’re not okay, it’s okay to say you’re not okay,” said her mother, Tina Dougal. “To release that stigma and know that you are still worthy and loved.”…