Two weeks ago one of our own killed himself. The shock, sorrow, anger, disbelief, and a range of other emotions have wreaked havoc on all of us. As we processed what had happened, comforted the family, and planned a memorial, we did so in a haze.
Within minutes of finding out, our law enforcement brothers and sisters sprung into action. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office not only investigated the incident, but they took over police operations in Lompoc that day, allowing the opportunity for Lompoc officers to be with family and friends.
Every police chief in Santa Barbara County as well as the District Attorney, sherriff, CHP, FBI, Guadalupe Police, and Allan Hancock College Public Safety personally called me to offer their condolences and support. The relationships in the law enforcement arena in Santa Barbara County are more than just professional, we are friends.
The outpouring of calls, emails, and texts from the national law enforcement community was overwhelming, and made me proud to be a part of such an honorable profession.
But the most impressive thing was the Lompoc community support! The cards, flowers, calls, and food dropped off at the station was so wonderful. I was not surprised; Lompoc is full of great people who care about their public safety personnel.
As we move forward, we will never forget officer Miguel Grijalva. We will also strive to bring awareness to suicide and work hard to prevent future tragedy.
On behalf of the Lompoc Police Department, I wanted to thank the community of Lompoc for its support and love. We are fortunate to work in a community that shows its support and is not afraid to openly and proudly honor those who serve.
This article appears in Apr 6-13, 2017.