2024 So. Cal. Hospital Security Officers of the Year

Officer Lorenzo Cervantes (left), City of Hope – Duarte

“On January 17, 2024, at 4:17 PM, Officer L. Cervantez responded promptly to a call from the  Security Operations Center regarding a female suspect wanted by the Irwindale Sheriff’s  Department. The suspect was reported to be armed and had committed a crime of physical  battery.

While patrolling Parking Structure A, Officer Cervantez spotted a female matching the  description provided—wearing a pink t-shirt, black pants, and a black baseball cap with white  lettering. Upon closer observation, he confirmed the suspect’s attire and approached her. Officer  Cervantez ordered her to stop and drop the items she was holding, which included a black wallet  and her baseball cap. He conducted a visual check for weapons, ensuring his safety and that of  others. The suspect claimed she was waiting for a ride and identified herself as a visitor, but  when asked for her name, she refused to answer. Recognizing that she was trespassing, Officer  Cervantez detained her until backup arrived. Officers Jean Luc Fernandez and Galeon, along  with several allied officers and Irwindale Sheriff’s Duty Mathew Tapia, responded to the scene.  The suspect was ultimately arrested, searched for weapons, and transported off campus.”

Officer Cervantez’s quick actions and keen attention to detail in a potentially dangerous  situation exemplify his commitment to safety and security on campus, making him a deserving  candidate for the Officer of the Year award.