Riverside County Sheriff’s Office honors fallen deputy

In a wreath laying ceremony, local law enforcement and loved ones turned out Sunday to the Deputy Bruce Lee Memorial Highway in La Quinta — to honor the fallen Riverside County Sheriff Deputy.

“We’re able to show we have not forgotten him,” said Nancy Perez, Lee’s cousin.

May 13th, 2012, marks nine years since Lee was beaten to death by a mentally disturbed man while working in the line of duty. Lee worked for the sheriff’s department for 22 years.

“It was a sad day then and it’s a sad day today and we all miss him very much,” said Capt. Frank Taylor of the Riverside Sheriff’s Office.

At this year’s memorial, officials from various public safety organizations remembered his accomplishments and more.

“Just seeing the whole community and the whole sheriff’s department come together as a family was great,” said Belinda Corranza, Lee’s cousin.

“He always had a big smile and he loved coming to work everyday,” said Taylor.

Family members say he was a man who loved his job — and he won’t be forgotten.

“It’s nice to know he’s being remembered. They have a tough job, it should be recognized. Not just at times like this, but everyday,” said Carranza.