Senior Investigator Laura Jean Cleaves

Cop Killer Parole Alert. An inmate connected to this officer's death is up for parole.Send Your No Parole Letter

Senior Investigator Laura Jean Cleaves

Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office, California

End of Watch Thursday, May 1, 2008

Add to My Heroes

Laura Jean Cleaves

Senior Investigator Laura Cleaves was killed when her department vehicle was struck head-on by a drunk driver on Highway 154, near the intersection of Highway 246. She was returning to Lompoc from Santa Barbara when the incident occurred shortly before midnight.

The drunk driver, who was fleeing a California Highway Patrol officer at the time of the crash, was taken into custody following the incident.

Investigator Cleaves had served with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office for 24 years and had served in law enforcement for a total of 32 years. She had previously served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Arcata Police Department, and the Santa Barbara Police Department. She is survived by her husband, who serves with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department, two daughters, mother, father, step-mother, and four siblings.

Bio

  • Age 53
  • Tour 32 years
  • Badge DA-13

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Sentenced to 15 to life in prison

DUI, routine driving

Most Recent Reflection

View all 175 Reflections

Senior Investigator Cleaves,

I just learned of your passing, after getting a NO PAROLE letter request from ODPM. In fact, I just printed it up and will be forwarding it to the California Parole board. I'm so very sorry for your loss, and for the pain your parents, siblings and husband and daughters have been going through over the years. I will be praying for them all. Rest in peace.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. – Matthew 5:9

Daniel Ryan
Private Investigator (Retired)

August 1, 2023

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.