Stockton Police Department, California
End of Watch Thursday, August 3, 1978
Add to My HeroesNicholas Paul Cecchetti
Officer Cecchetti was shot and killed while serving a narcotics warrant. As he entered the rear door of the home he encountered the suspect, who was attempting to flee. As Officer Cecchetti reacted, he stumbled on the steps and fell forward. The suspect fired one shot, striking Officer Cecchetti near the collar bone, just above his vest, in a downward direction, striking his heart.
The suspect, 23, was arrested a short time later. On October 15, 1979, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life without parole. As of December 1, 2022, he was in Vacaville Prison and is not being considered for parole.
Officer Cecchetti was survived by his wife, two sons, and parents. His father served as the Stockton police chief at the time of the shooting.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 5 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 11 ReflectionsRest in peace knowing that your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
August 3, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths

Lieutenant Allen "Noochie" Credeur
Rayne Police Department, LA
EOW: May 5, 2025

Special Deputy Sheriff Larry Henderson, Jr.
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office, OH
EOW: May 2, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Brandon Ray Sikes
Columbia County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: April 26, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Jesse Perez
Dawson County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: April 22, 2025

Captain Helio Armando Garcia, III
South Fulton Police Department, GA
EOW: April 16, 2025

Deputy Sheriff Melissa Pollard
Wood County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: April 9, 2025

Deputy Sheriff William May
Walton County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: April 2, 2025

Police Officer Osmar Rodarte
Marysville Police Department, CA
EOW: March 26, 2025

Sergeant Grant J. Candies
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
EOW: March 23, 2025