Officer Jonathan Diaz

A fallen Hero, end of watch November 2nd 2019.

The signed memorial board within Lemoore PD

Officer Diaz as he swears in to Lemoore PD

Officer Diaz was a graduate of Coalinga High school and graduated from West Hills College with his associates degree in criminal justice. In July of 2014 he began his law enforcement career in his home town of Huron California as a Reserve Police Officer. Officer Diaz earned officer of the year with the Huron PD in 2015 and then in August of 2016 was hired by Lemoore Police Department. He then went on to earn Officer of the year in 2018 with the Lemoore PD.

Chief Smith and Officer Diaz after being awarded Officer of the Year in 2018

In his career, officer Diaz was known to go above and beyond the call of duty. His tenacity and commitment to his profession was evident in every interaction he had. His intelligence was key in investigating complex cases both for Huron and Lemoore police departments. Previously selected as the recruit training officer for the Tulare-Kings counties Basic Police Academy, he was then selected to be the Field Training Officer.

Known for his self initiative and willingness to go beyond the call of duty, Officer Diaz’s thoroughness and brilliant investigative skills resulted in multiple arrests for possession of controlled substances and loaded firearms. For the community, Officer Diaz was part of the Youth Adult Awareness Program, where he mentored at-risk youth. He coordinated with Pleasant Valley State Prison and at-risk students of Lemoore High school to allow them to interact so the students would see the realities of incarceration. Prior to his End Of Watch, he was working with Chowchilla State Prison and female at-risk students with the Central California Women’s Facility Youth Diversion Program.

Officer Diaz (3rd from right) as he participated in National Night Out with his patrol shift.

Officer Diaz was off duty at a birthday party on November 2nd 2019 when he intervened in a domestic violence situation, where he saved the victim prior to being killed. He is survived by three children, his parents, and siblings.

The family of Officer Diaz was presented with the Medal of Honor by Lemoore PD in 2021. The Harley Davidson donated in memory of Officer Diaz has been put into service. This year the overpass for Highway 198 and 19th Avenue will be dedicated in his honor come April. Officer Diaz will also be remembered in Sacramento in the first week of May.

Officer Diaz was an outstanding officer whose call to service and duty led to the ultimate sacrifice. He will be missed, by all who knew him and the community he served.

Rest in Peace Officer Diaz and thank you for your service.