Body of Missing Bristol Police Officer Recovered in Costa Rica

The family of Bristol Patrolman Richard Jean-Georges and the law enforcement community in Rhode Island is mourning his death after his body was found in the waters off the coast of Costa Rica on Tuesday.

Jeann-Georges, a three-year veteran of the department, was overcome by strong surf while swimming during a vacation with family members on Saturday.

A team of Bristol police officers traveled to the country and arrived Tuesday to help in the search for the 29-year-old officer, who is described as an honest, hard-working man who was both a role model and committed public servant.

Red Cross Spokesman Freddy Román said that crews got a report at around 7:31 p.m. on Saturday of two people who “disappeared” during a period of high surf.

The National Air Vigilance Service, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Red Cross have been searching for Jean-George by air and sea with a plane, jetskis and a speedboat.

Jean-Georges was with another man who reportedly was rescued on Saturday and transported to a medical center.

Officials in the country had warned of strong waves over the weekend.

Jean-Georges’ father said that he was celebrating a cousin’s birthday.

“I pray that nobody else ever has to deal with this because this is the worst thing we’ve ever dealt with” said Manny Jean-Georges Sr.

A GoFundMe has been established to help the family during this difficult time. You can contribute by going HERE.

More information about services for Jean-Georges are to be announced.