Somebody killed a policeman today, and a part of America died.
A piece of our country he swore to protect, will be buried with him at his side.
The suspect who shot him will stand up in court, with counsel demanding his rights,
While a young widowed mother must work for her kids, and spend alone many long nights.
The beat that he walked was a battlefield too, just as if he’d gone off to war.
Though the flag of our nation won’t fly at half mast, to his name they will add a gold star.
Yes, somebody killed a policeman today, It Happened in your town or mine.
While we slept in comfort behind our locked doors, a cop put his life on the line.
Now his ghost walks a beat on a dark city street, and he stands at each new rookie’s side.
He answered the call, and gave us his all, and a part of America died.
~Unknown
JOHN PARRAZ, FOUNDER
Sacramento County
Sheriff’s Office, CA
End of Watch March 31, 1979
CARLOS CRUZ
JOHN PARRAZ, FOUNDER
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, CA
Founder and LPOA (National) President 1974 & 1975
End of Watch March 31, 1979
NLPOA Sacramento County Chapter, CA
SGT. RICHARD P. REYES, FOUNDER
San Jose Police Department, CA
End of Watch April 29, 1995
CARLOS CRUZ
SGT. RICHARD P. REYES, FOUNDER
San Jose Police Department, CA
End of Watch April 29, 1995
CARLOS CRUZ
Past NLPOA National President
End of Watch: August 6, 2016
CARLOS CRUZ
Carlos Cruz
Past NLPOA National President
End of Watch: August 6, 2016
Carlos Cruz, 76, born on June 30, 1940, in New York, New York, passed away August 6, 2016. He had an extremely productive and interesting life. He took many new paths courageously and enthusiastically. My father had an eclectic array of careers varying from the Marine Corp to law enforcement, specifically LAPD and CHP. His first career was actually as a tailor in New York. After retiring from the CHP and a short stint as a forest ranger, he became an entrepreneur. He went back to school, got a degree in fashion design and began his own successful business as a tailor/designer out of his home. My father is survived by his lovely wife Jackie Cruz, his brother Richard and sister Gina. He has 4 surviving children, his oldest child Maria having passed in infancy; Theresa (TC) Fontenot, Cynthia (Cindy) Van Vleet, Philip & Sara Cruz. Carlos has three grandchildren; Arielle Briggs, Marcus and Dominic Fontenot. He has also been blessed with 5 great granddaughters; Gabriella (8) & Isabella (4) Briggs, Elizabeth Fontenot (5), and Julia (23 mos) & Teresa (6 mos) Fontenot. He resided in Fillmore, California at the time of his passing.
Jackie asked that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the NLPOAVC Scholarship Fund at www.nlpoaventuracounty.com
Jackie wants to thank all of you for your thoughtful words.
http://forestlawn.tributes.com/obituary/show/Carlos-Cruz-103850026
JESS MARTINEZ
Kings County NLPOA member
End of Watch: July 24, 2016
JESS MARTINEZ
Jess Martinez
Kings County NLPOA member
End of Watch: July 24,2016, 4:30 P.M.
Jess Martinez was a long time member of the NLPOA
Joey Amador, Ruben Diaz NLPOA Fresno County President, Cindy Rodriguez NLPOA National President, and Vincente Calderon NLPOA National Founder at Jess Martinez memorial service
Rick Birmias King County, Cindy Rodriguez NLPOA National President, Vincente Calderon NLPOA National Founder and Steve Fajardo at Jess Martinez memorial service
Andrew Cruz
Former National President
End of Watch 3-17-2016
Andrew Cruz
Andrew J. Cruz
Former National President
End of Watch 3-17-2016
Dear Members,
It is with great sadness to inform you that former National President Andy J. Cruz passed away today at approximately 1518 hours after a long battle with an illness. He leaves behind his wife Estella Cruz, his daughter Paula, and two sons Jeremiah and Andy Junior.
Andrew J. Cruz, is retired from the Sacramento Police Department, a former National President of the National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA) from 1996 to 1998, webmaster, historian, and was awarded a Lifetime Membership in March of 2015.
Andy was very strong in his faith, and our prayers go out to him and his family. Additional information regarding services will be posted as it is received.
Thank you,
Andrew P. Peralta
National President – NLPOA
Phone: 1-702-204-6383
Email: nlpoanatpres20@gmail.com
Richard ” Tio ” Velasquez
End of Watch
January 5, 2016
Richard -Tio- Velasquez
End of Watch
January 5, 2016Richard ” Tio ” Velasquez
Richard was employed with the Tulare County Sheriffs Department as a Deputy. Richard retired: California Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement,Fresno Office. End of Watch on January 5, 2016, at his home in Reedley, California, after a long battle with cancer. Richard was a former NLPOA member of the Tulare Chapter.
Ralph Diaz
NLPOA Lifetime Member
End of Watch 11-5-2015
Ralph Diaz
Ralph Diaz
NLPOA Lifetime Member
End of Watch 11-5-2015
Ralph (Ralphie) Diaz was born on May 19, 1945 and passed away in Visalia, California on November 5, 2015. His wife Mirtha, Sons, Ralph and Andrew Diaz and his daughter Delilah Martinez, survives Ralph.
He served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division in 1970 and was honorably discharged from the Army in 1972 with the rank of Specialist E-4. Shortly thereafter upon returning home to Visalia he joined the Tulare County Sheriffs Department as a Deputy Sheriff were he earned the position of homicide sergeant and retired in 2004. After retiring, he took a position with the Tulare County District Attorney as Chief Investigations Officer. In this new position, Ralph investigated many “cold cases” which took him to Mexico and various states in the United States. His outstanding abilities as an investigator cleared many cold cases for Tulare County Law Enforcement Agencies. Ralph was also a member of the “Vietnam Veterans”.
Deputy Sheriff Manuel Steve Gomez
End of Watch 10-20-2015
Manuel Steve Gomez
Deputy Sheriff Manuel Steve Gomez
End of Watch 10-20-2015
It is with great sadness and with a heavy heart to report that Deputy Manuel Steve Gomez and Dallas County Chapter Board member passed away today at 5:18 pm. We ask each of you to keep Steve and his Family in our prayers during this difficult time.
Deputy Sheriff Manuel Steve Gomez
Born January 1969 and end of watch October 20, 2015
Comments of condolences can be left on the Chapter website nlpoadcc.com
Mike Ramirez
Texas State President
Karen Long
Orlando Master Police Officer
End of Watch 10-10-2015
Karen Long
Karen Long
Orlando Master Police Officer
End of Watch 10-10-2015
The Central Florida National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA) lost one of their members to Stage IV Cancer on October 10, 2015. Master Police Officer Karen Long, 41, was a 15-year-officer with the Orlando Police Department. She was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in 2007 at the age of 33 and fought a very public battle with the deadly disease.
During her tenure Karen was assigned as a patrol officer, a Special Victims Unit detective, a school resource officer, and a commissioner liaison in our Community Involvement Division. She was involved in numerous community projects throughout the years, including Shop with a Cop and Three Kings. She ran the Marine Corps Marathon and participated in many charity running events while undergoing aggressive medical treatments.
Karen was an inspiration to many and shared her journey with her friends and family via social media and a blog. She participated in numerous awareness campaigns for breast cancer, and was a gracious spokesperson and gave hope to a lot of women. She demonstrated an extremely bright outlook on life and gave credit to her strong faith and belief in God’s plan.
Karen is survived by her husband, Bill and their two children, Sam & Bella. Bill is also a sworn member of the Orlando Police Department.
Jose Miramontes
NLPOA National President 2000-2004
End of Watch 10-6-2015
Officer Kerrie Orozco
End of Watch
May 20, 2015
Sheriff Detective James Wise
Dallas County Sheriff Detective
End of Watch May 23, 2015
Sheriff Detective James Wise
Sheriff Detective James Wise
NLPOA Member
Dallas County Sheriff Detective
End of Watch May 23, 2015
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Dallas County Sheriff Detective and NLPOA member James Wise. James passed away on Saturday (May 23, 2015) from complications after a long and courageous battle from cancer. We ask that you keep James and his Family in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike Ramirez
Texas State President
Chuck Arellano
NLPOA Member
End of Watch: 3-22-2016
Chuck Arellano
NLPOA Member
End of Watch: 3-22-2016
Dear Members,
It is with great sadness to inform you that Chuck Arellano passed away today at his home. He was born 03/23/1955, and retired from the Stockton Police Department in 2006 as a Sr. Sgt. He was a devoted NLPOA member. Chuck is survived by his only daughter Alison Arellano.
Chuck has been a member of the NLPOA since 1994
Chuck was a Founders of the NLPOA San Joaquin Chapter, CA.
Served as the president for many years of that chapter.
Served as an NLPOA California State Central Vice President
Please say a prayer for Chuck and his family.
Thank you,
Andrew P. Peralta
National President – NLPOA
Phone: 1-702-204-6383
Email: nlpoanatpres20@gmail.com
Richard Delgado
NLPOA Member
End of Watch: 4-21-2016
Richard Delgado
NLPOA Member
End of Watch: 4-21-2016
Richard Delgado honorably served on the first executive board of the ELA chapter of the NLPOA as sergeant at arms in 1994.
Richard has spent one year in the hospital. Richard was medically retired from the California Highway Patrol in 2013. Since then he has been battling some serious health issues.
His medical bills have depleted all his funds. Any assistance that you can give will be greatly appreciated. You can send the donations to Evangelina Liza Delgado (Richard’s wife) to 23746 Via Segovia, Murrieta, CA. 92562. An official trust fund is in the process of being set up.
If you need additional information you can contact Al Perez, CHP (retired) and NLPOA ELA chapter alumni 1994 Executive board, Parliamentarian at 760 578 4795 or email me at pilas1478@gmail.com.
May GOD bless each an every one of you, and please stay safe.
Al Perez
Detective Rafael Segarra, Jr.
End of Watch
May 24, 2010
Detective Rafael Segarra, Jr.
End of Watch
May 24, 2010
At 44 years of age, Detective Rafael Segarra, Jr. tragically passed away on the evening of Monday, May 24th, 2010. Rafael Segarra, a beloved husband and father of three, was born on November 11, 1965. The New Haven Police Department, Connecticut, fortunately hired Rafael on January 24, 1992, where he made a significant impact in the Department. During his 44 years on earth, he made several accomplishments such as: being a graduate of Warren Harding High School (June 1984) and a graduate of Municipal Police Training Course (July 1992).
In addition, he was on patrol for the years of 1992-1994. In December of 1994, Rafael became part of the Investigative Services/Intelligence Program. On November 19, 1995, Rafael Segarra was promoted to Detective. His duties with Investigative Services consisted of assignments in the Arson Unit, Intelligence, and Major Crimes Unit. He was also assigned to Internal Affairs (June 2003-June 2006). Detective Rafael Segarra, Jr. was presented with awards throughout his time with New Haven Police Department. His strong work ethic granted him four Certificates of Commendation (September 1994, November 1995, June 1998, and January 2004) as well as Secretary of State’s 2005 Public Service Award.
Rafael Segarra, Jr. has been an NLPOA member since 1996 and served as the NLPOA Connecticut Chapter Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Rafael was also elected to serve on the National NLPOA Board of Directors from 2005-2006, as the National NLPOA Historian.
Detective Rafael Segarra, Jr. will be forever missed and will always be remembered as a loving husband and father.
Richard Delgado
NLPOA Member
End of Watch: 4-21-2016
Officer Michael V. Rhonda
December 2, 2010
New Castle County Police Department, DE
Officer Raul Elizondo
January 30, 1995
End of Watch
Officer Raul Elizondo
January 30, 1995
End of Watch
Officer Patrick Metzler
End of Watch
October 22, 2002
Officer Patrick Metzler
End of Watch
October 22, 2002
Officer Ignacio Pulido
End of Watch
October 3, 2009
Officer Ignacio Pulido
End of Watch
October 3, 2009
Sgt.Henry Prendes
End of Watch
February 1, 2006
Sgt.Henry Prendes
End of Watch
February 1, 2006
Jaime J. Zapata, Special Agent
End of Watch
February 15, 2011
Jaime J. Zapata, Special Agent
End of Watch
February 15, 2011
Officer Adolfo M. Hernandez
End of Watch
End of Watch June 27, 1975
Officer Adolfo M. Hernandez
End of Watch
End of Watch June 27, 1975
Officer Saul Martinez
End of Watch
May 14, 1997
Officer Saul Martinez
California Highway Patrol
End of Watch May 14, 1997
Yolanda Flores
End of Watch
June 14, 2002
Yolanda Flores
NLPOA Sacramento Chapter
End of Watch
June 14, 2002
John Galvez
End of Watch
January 21, 2005
John Galvez
California Youth Parole
Founding Member of the NLPOA Sacramento Chapter
End of Watch
January 21, 2005
Isaac Anthony Espinoza
End of Watch
April 10, 2004
Isaac Anthony Espinoza
San Francisco Police
End of Watch April 10, 2004
Gilbert O. Parra, Detective
End of Watch
Oct. 19, 2003
Gilbert O. Parra, Detective
End of Watch
Oct. 19, 2003
Joab O. Pacillas
End of Watch
May 1996
Joab O. Pacillas
Retired Corrections Officer, U.S. Bureau of Prisons
End of Watch May 1, 1996
Past LPOA Editor 1973 to 1990
NLPOA Santa Clara County Chapter, CA
Paul Peter Comparan
Past National NLPOA President
End of Watch
January 26, 2005
Paul Peter Comparan
Past National NLPOA President
End of Watch
January 26, 2005
Raymond Mendiola
San Jose Police Department, CA
LPOA (National) President 1978
Raymond Mendiola
Retired Officer, San Jose Police Department, CA
LPOA (National) President 1978
End of Watch
NLPOA Santa Clara County Chapter, CA
Tony Coultress
NLPOA San Joaquin Chapter, CA
End of Watch September 10, 2000
Tony Coultress
San Joaquin Police Dept. CA
NLPOA San Joaquin Chapter, CA
End of Watch September 10, 2000
Jose A. Santiago, Lt
End of Watch
January 19, 2007
Jose A. Santiago, Lt
End of Watch
January 19, 2007
Kyle Eng
End of Watch
July19, 2018
Kyle Eng, Corrections Officer
Department of Public Safety
City of Las Vegas
End of Watch July 19, 2018
Raul Martinez
End of Watch
July 6, 2018
Raul Martinez
End of Watch
July 6, 2018
San Jose Police Department, CA
Homero Carl Calderon
End of Watch
January 29, 2018
Homero Carl Calderon, Deputy
Dallas County Sheriff’s Dept., TX
End of Watch June 29, 2018
Ruben F. Rios
End of Watch
October 27, 1997
Ruben F. Rios, Sr., Officer
California Highway Patrol
End of Watch October 27, 1997
Larry J. Jaramillo
End of Watch
June 22, 1993
Larry J. Jaramillo, Officer
California Highway Patrol
End of Watch June 22, 1993
Albert Rivera, Jr., Corrections Officer
End of Watch
June 22, 2009
Albert Rivera, Jr., Corrections Officer
CA Dept. of Corrections
End of Watch June 22, 2009
Lorenzo Provencio
End of Watch
December 16, 2019
Long Time NLPOA Member Lorenzo Provencio, San Diego, CA. Lorenzo passed on 12/19/19. Lorenzo served as a U.S. Marine during the Korean War and was awarded the Silver Star, an award just short of the Medal of Honor.
Education Bachelors & Master Degrees, SDSU Administration. Lorenzo returned to become a teacher in South San Diego and years later retired. Former Sweetwater School Board Member – 8 years. Former South Bay School Board Member -13 years.
Lorenzo served on the NLPOA San Diego County Board, the NLPOA State of California Board, and the National NLPOA Board. Lorenzo was honored as a National NLPOA Lifetime Member for his service and commitment to NLPOA. His services will be 01/08/2020 in Imperial Beach, CA. Thank You Lorenzo for your service to our Country, our Community, and to the NLPOA.
Richard Breceda, Sgt.
End of Watch
March 24, 2019
Richard Breceda, Sgt.
End of Watch
March 24, 2019
Sgt. Richard Breceda, long time member and former President of the NLPOA San Gabriel Valley Chapter, CA. End of Watch March 24, 2019. Sgt. Breceda dedicated 35 years to the residents of Irwindale, CA.
William Charles “Bill” Garcia
End of Watch
October 16, 2019
William Charles “Bill” Garcia
End of Watch
October 16, 2019
NLPOA North Los Angeles Chapter Treasurer-William Garcia. Bill passed away at his residence in San Jacinto on Wednesday October 16th due to medical complications. Bill had a “heart of gold” and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He leaves behind his wife Claudia as well as his children and several grandchildren.
Luis Duran Bautista
End of Watch
September 17, 2018
Luis Duran Bautista
End of Watch
September 17, 2018
A founding member of the NLPOA Coachella Valley, CA
Riverside County sheriff’s deputy 1972 – 2000
Sheila J. Rivera
End of Watch
April 19, 2020
Sheila J. Rivera, Corrections Officer
NLPOA Chicago Metro Chapter
Cook County Sheriff’s Office, IL
End of Watch April 19, 2020
Lorenzo served on the NLPOA S
Officer Thomas Chinn, III
End of Watch
05/09/2020
Officer Thomas Chinn, III
NLPOA Southern Nevada Chapter
City of Las Vegas Public Safety Corrections.
End of Watch
05/09/2020
Sgt. Gilbert Polanco
End of Watch
August 9, 2020
Sgt. Bobby Polanco
NLPOA Marin County, CA
CA Dept. of Corrections and Rehabilitation
End of Watch
August 9, 2020
Peter Gascon
End of Watch
September 28, 2020
Peter Gascon, Ret Member
NLPOA San Diego Metro Chapter, CA &
NLPOA San Diego County Chapter, CA
End of Watch
Sep 28, 2020
Al Martinez, Sr., Ret. Officer
End of Watch
Nov 9, 2020
Al Martinez, Sr., Ret. Officer
Omaha Police Department, NE
NLPOA Omaha Chapter, Nebraska
End of Watch Nov 9, 2020
Ben Rubidoux, Ret.
End of Watch
December 11, 2020
Ben Rubidoux, Ret.
Sr. Deputy Coroner Investigator
San Bernardino Coroner’s Office, CA
NLPOA San Bernardino/Riverside Chapter, CA
End of Watch December 11, 2020
Franco Holguin, Deputy Sheriff
End of Watch
January 27, 2021
Franco Holguin, Deputy Sheriff
Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, CA
NLPOA Central Valley Chapter, CA
End of Watch January 27, 2021
Lou Silva, Ret. Officer
End of Watch
January 29, 2021
Lou Silva, Ret. Officer
Oakland Police Dept., CA
NLPOA Alameda County Chapter, CA
End of Watch January 29, 2021
David Sisto, Officer
End of Watch
February 2, 2021
David Sisto, Officer
San Diego Police Dept., CA
NLPOA San Diego Metro, CA
End of Watch February 2, 2021
Edna Strangman, Member
End of Watch
February 7, 2021
Edna Strangman, Member
NLPOA San Diego Metro, CA
End of Watch February 7, 2021
If you know more NLPOA Members that should be on our Memory Page, please email info@nlpoa.com