Gilbert Cortez - Corrections Officer - California

Sergeant Gilbert Cortez, age 46, died in the line of duty on March 25, 2013, in San Diego County, California.

Gilbert was a member of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He had 23 years of service.

Sergeant Cortez was part of a convoy of state corrections K9 officers who were en route to inspect the La Cima Fire Camp in a rural part of the county. His marked vehicle veered off the roadway and overturned, killing K9 Mattie. Sergeant Cotez was transported to a local fire station but died before a helicopter could reach him.

Gilbert started his career in 1990 at the California Institution for Men in Chino. In 1991 he transferred to Calipatria State Prison and was assigned to the Investigative Services Unit. In 2001, he was transferred to the Norco prison to complete K-9 training.

Department officials stated that Gilbert was a valued member of their department and that his death is a huge loss to all who worked with him. 

Michael, Archangel,
Patron Saint of
Corrections Officers,
pray for Gilbert

Colleagues describe him as a dedicated and professional officer. 

Gilbert is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his parents, his wife and two children. 

Pray for all who die in the line of duty. 

Thank you for serving, Gilbert. 

Let us pray that Gilbert is in heaven. Let us pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.