SWAT Sergeant Steve Gomez Retires–Last Active SWAT Officer Who Directly Engaged Suspects at NoHo BofA Shootout

September 23, 2010

WHAT:
A special retirement ceremony for LAPD SWAT Supervisor Steve Gomez during which he will pass his sergeant’s badge on to his successor and place a wreath on the memorial for fallen SWAT Officers Robert Cottle and Randy Simmons.

WHEN:
Friday, September 24, 2010
10:15 a.m.

WHERE:
LAPD Administration Building Plaza
100 W. 1st Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

WHO:
LAPD Chief of Police Charlie Beck
LAPD SWAT Sergeant Steve Gomez
LAPD Command Staff and Officers
Family Members of Sergeant Gomez

WHY:
To acknowledge the significance of Sergeant Gomez’ departure from LAPD as the last SWAT officer still on the job who directly engaged suspects at the violent North Hollywood Bank of America Shootout in February 1997.  During the incident, 19 officers and civilians were injured in a dramatic battle with two vicious criminals who fired about 1,300 rounds of ammunition at officers before they were finally stopped.  Gomez was awarded a Medal of Valor for his actions during the shootout, as well as an additional medal for his actions in a previous, unrelated incident.

The event is also an opportunity to honor the bravery and dedication of all SWAT officers, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the Department, City of Los Angeles and their country.

CONTACT:
For more information, contact LAPD Media Relations at 213-486-5910.