Detective Gerald Wayne Sawyer

Detective Gerald Wayne Sawyer

Los Angeles Police Department, California

End of Watch Tuesday, November 6, 1973

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Gerald Wayne Sawyer

Detective Gerald Sawyer was shot and killed while working in a joint undercover investigation with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.

A cocaine trafficker shot Detective Sawyer during an attempted robbery of a $144,000 flash roll. The trafficker and an accomplice were arrested at the scene by other officers and charged with first-degree murder.

A jury acquitted both suspects on September 28, 1974.

Detective Sawyer had served with the Los Angeles Police Department for 10 years. He was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 32
  • Tour 10 years
  • Badge 11797

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Acquitted

narcotics, undercover

Most Recent Reflection

View all 32 Reflections

Det. Sawyer,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Los Angeles. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

November 6, 2023

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