Detective Gerald Wayne Sawyer, Los Angeles Police Department, California

Detective Gerald Wayne Sawyer

Los Angeles Police Department, California

End of Watch Tuesday, November 6, 1973

Gerald 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

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Most Recent Reflection

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I 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