Los Angeles Police Department, California
End of Watch Tuesday, November 6, 1973
Add to My HeroesGerald Wayne Sawyer
Detective Gerald Sawyer was shot and killed while working in a joint undercover investigation with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Detective Sawyer was shot by a cocaine trafficker during an attempted robbery of a $144,000 flashroll. 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 agency for 10 years and was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 32
- Tour 10 years
- Badge 11797
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Acquitted
Most Recent Reflection
View all 29 ReflectionsI played youth football on Sawyer Field (named in his honor). We knew of his death but only later did I get the full story and learn of his ultimate sacrifice. Thank you Blackie. On the anniversary of your death, we still remember and salute. RIP.
Deputy Sheriff LASD
November 6, 2017
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