California Institution for Men (CIM) honored the memory of fallen Correctional Officer Manuel Gonzalez who was murdered 19 years ago.
The Jan. 10 ceremony marks the 2005 slaying of Officer Gonzalez when he was stabbed to death while on duty.
In remembrance of Gonzalez, a moment of silence was initiated at 11:52, marking the time he took his last breath. Following the moment of silence, an End of Watch Call was announced by Central Control with the activation of Sycamore Hall’s alarm.
In June 2023, after 18 years, the trial of the person who killed Gonzalez began. The jury reached a verdict on July 5, 2023, finding the incarcerated person guilty of murder.
Acting Warden Travis Pennington welcomed Officer Gonzalez’s family, friends, and institution staff to the ceremony.
“I know this day will never be forgotten. I hope the Gonzalez family has some kind of closure knowing the person who took the life of Manuel Gonzalez was found guilty,” said Pennington.
Capt. Manuel Vega and acting Capt. Eddie Pena shared memories of their fallen brother while also offering words of encouragement to the Gonzalez family.
Story submitted by Lt. Paul Ybarra
California Institution for Men
Manuel Gonzalez memorial in photos
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