Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office, California
End of Watch Thursday, May 1, 2008
Add to My HeroesLaura 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
Most Recent Reflection
View all 175 ReflectionsSenior 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
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