Pocono News Section

Benefits for Trooper Joshua Millers family

Benefits for Trooper Joshua Millers family - Friday, June 19, 2009 at 5:48PM EST

Friday, Jun 19, 2009 @ 05:48pm EST

Groups across the region are stepping up for the family of slain Pennsylvania state trooper Joshua Miller.

Many people say they want to help out because they don't think the Millers will receive enough death benefit payments.

Trooper Joshua Millers death is still sinking in for Monroe County sheriff's deputy Andrew Spurling.

"You know, it's just a big, big shock," said Spurling.

Just two weeks ago, Spurling talked with miller here at the Monroe county courthouse in Stroudsburg.

Now Spurling is helping with two fundraisers for Miller's family.

Next Friday a bake sale will raise funds here at the courthouse.

Spurling is also collecting money at Pocono medical center, where he is a security guard.

"Whatver we can raise, it's got to help a little. We are just trying to put everything together," said Spurling.

Families of state troopers killed in the line of duty receive a one time payment of one hundred thousand dollars.

That's much different than death benefits for other branches of law enforcement.

Bourough and township police officer's families can possibly receive up to 100 percent of an officers salary.

That's if the officer dies in the line of duty.

The union representing state police wants a state senate bill to set the same standards for troopers.

Spurling agrees, saying, "It's something that should be in effect. These guys go out and risk their life every day. The families have got to have something to fall back on."

Another benefit will be held at Damon's restaurant on route 93 in Hazleton .

It's set for June 26th from 4 until 9 pm .