Guest Commentary
by Brian R. Marvel
President, San Diego Police Officers Association
By now, you’ve likely heard the name of Archie Buggs, the San Diego Police Officer who was murdered in cold blood in 1978.
A Vietnam veteran who had been serving with the department for four years, Officer Buggs made a routine traffic stop on the night of November 4, 1978. As Buggs approached the rear of the car, Jesus Cecena — a gang member — exited the car and fired five shots at Officer Buggs, three of which hit him in the side.
The sixth and final gunshot was an execution-style shot to the temple. A fellow officer would find Buggs on the ground, his service revolver and ticket book on the ground next to him.
Today, there are two things you can do to ensure that the memory of Officer Buggs lives on and is protected.
First: the San Diego Police Officers Association is supporting an effort to rename Robert E. Lee Elementary School after Officer Buggs. Archie grew up in the neighborhood where the school is located, and his family still lives there to this day. An effort to rename the school has already been initiated, and several names are under consideration.
This would be a strong step toward enshrining his memory for continuing generations. We’d like to gather as much support for this effort as possible, and we encourage you to sign the petition organized by the San Diego Black Police Officers’ Association.
Second: this month, Jesus Cecena is up for review by the parole board for early release. You may remember that last year, the parole board granted to release inmate Cecena; however, following strong opposition led by the SDPOA and San Diego elected officials, the Governor denied this request.
With his eligibility once again under review, it’s important that we once again ensure our voices are heard, and that we express our opposition to granting release to an individual who murdered a San Diego Police Officer in cold blood.
If you are willing to be part of this effort, we encourage you to utilize this sample letter and affix your name. Please mail any copy to:
Board of Parole Hearings
P.O. Box 4036
Sacramento, CA 95812-4036
Thank you for your willingness to help protect the memory of one of our fallen officers.