Police Officer George Valentino Cortez Jr.
Phoenix Police Department
Arizona
End of Watch: Friday, July 27, 2007

Biographical Info
Age: 23
Tour of Duty: 4 years
Badge Number: 8232

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Friday, July 27, 2007
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: In custody

Officer George Cortez was shot and killed after responding to a cash-checking store to investigate reports of a forgery-in-progress.

At approximately 8:30 pm, Officer Cortez responded to a call that a man and woman were passing forged checks at a check-cashing business on 83rd Avenue, near Encanto Boulevard. Officer Cortez entered the business and was placing the male suspect in handcuffs when he drew a gun and shot Officer Cortez several times.

Officer Cortez was rushed to St. Joseph's Hospital where he died from his injuries.

The suspects fled the scene, but were apprehended the next day. They were charged with capital first-degree murder, burglary and forgery.

Officer Cortez had served with the Phoenix Police Department for two years and as detention officer with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Department for two years. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and parents.