Law enforcement help around Santa Cruz County during sergeant’s memorial service
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION) Over 30 law enforcement agencies helped around Santa Cruz County during the procession and memorial service for Sergeant Damon Gutzwiller.
Officers from out-of-town provided security and support as the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office mourned the loss of one of their own.
"Whatever they asked for we were going to do in any way that we possibly could," said Captain John Thornburg with the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.
San Jose Police, and others, were seen directing traffic as thousands exited Cabrillo College after the ceremony.
Thornburg said showing support for their neighboring county was priority Wednesday.
"I have no doubt that our members did other things that they weren't asked to do, but they felt would be helpful, to help our neighbors get through this," said Thornburg.
Thornburg said some deputies from Monterey County were involved in the memorial service and escorted Gutzwiller's family to their seats. Others helped take over daily patrols. "We have people on patrol. We have people on court security. We have coroners. We have people all over our office that don't work here but are here to help," said Santa Cruz County Sheriff, Jim Hart.
At Wednesday's service, Hart took a moment to thank outside agencies that have helped their office over the past two weeks. “Our deputies and police are loved in this community. People are making us more and more aware of that everyday," said Hart.
