Fallen Santa Cruz Police Officers Honored

SANTA CRUZ, CA — A memorial was planned Wednesday for Santa Cruz Police Sgt. Loran "Butch" Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler, who were killed by a suspect they had gone to interview about a sexual assault case.

Every year since on the anniversary of their deaths, the officers are honored at 3:23 p.m. Ceremonies are held at the Baker-Butler Memorial Garden courtyard in front of the police department. The garden was dedicated on the first anniversary of the shooting.

"Remembering who they were, what made them so special, why we admired them, why we loved them and why we were proud to serve next to them will make certain they never leave our hearts," former Chief Kevin Vogel wrote in 2016.

In previous years, officers have worn memorial pins inscribed with their badge numbers.

The public is welcome to attend the ceremony.

"We thank you for your service, your convictions and devotion to duty," SCPD spokesperson Joyce Blaschke wrote on Facebook. "May you rest in peace knowing your fellow brothers and sisters are watching over your family and continuing the (watch)."