Memorial Planned for Fallen Police Officers

Santa Cruz Police Announces Garden to Honor Sergeant Baker and Detective Butler

The Santa Cruz Police Department has finalized plans to create a permanent memorial and garden in honor of Sergeant Butch Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler.

The memorial and garden will be prominently displayed at the entrance to the police department. This is the same location where a spontaneous memorial appeared from the Santa Cruz community. The memorial and garden will serve as a lasting tribute to honor the commitment, service and ultimate sacrifice to public safety made by Sergeant Baker and Detective Butler.

The police department hopes to dedicate the memorial on the one-year anniversary of the officers’ end of watch (February 26, 2014).

The memorial garden will include a fountain and two large exotic jasper boulders with a brass plaque embedded featuring each of the officers. These will be separated from a stone walkway by a 2-foot high raised stone wall. The memorial and garden will also have a bench and landscaped plants. The memorial and garden will be lit for night viewing.

Attached is an overhead view sketch of the memorial and garden. Also attached is a photo of the location and the exotic jasper boulders selected.

The police department has worked with local landscape artist Cindy West to design the memorial and garden. Cindy has volunteered her time and talents to this project. Peter Putt of Putt Construction has volunteered to complete electrical wiring. Graniterock has offered to assist in the cost of the boulders.

The police department is hoping to raise funds for the remainder of the construction and materials costs (which will include a large crane needed to position the boulders). Those wishing to contribute can do so through the Santa Cruz Police Officers’ Association. Contributors can write a check to the association or visit their Website at www.santacruzpoa.com