Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a motion introduced by Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Hilda L. Solis that reestablishes a $20,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of those responsible for the murder of 27-year-old Sheriff’s Deputy Juan Escalante in Cypress Park.
Deputy Escalante, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and a father of three, was shot and killed outside his parents’ home at approximately 5:40 a.m. on August 2, 2008. Investigators have arrested six individuals in connection with the case but believe more suspects remain at large.
“It has been almost 16 years since Deputy Escalante’s life tragically ended yet his children, wife, family, and colleagues continue to feel the terrible pain of his loss,” Supervisor Kathryn Barger stated. “I remain hopeful this reward will lead investigators to everyone involved in this heinous murder so they are held accountable. Justice must be served.”
“Reestablishing the reward for Deputy Juan Escalante is how the Board supports the family and friends of our fallen hero and continues to pursue justice to ensure anyone who was involved in his murder is apprehended. I am grateful to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for continuing to work to make sure those involved are held accountable,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, who represents the First District. “I implore anyone with information to contact the Department.”
Members of the public with any information about this case can anonymously contact the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1(800) 222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at lacrimestoppers.org.
Tips and information can also be reported to the Los Angeles Sheriff Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500 and speaking with Lieutenant Patricia Thomas, or to the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division at (213) 486-6890 and speaking with Detective Carlos Camacho.