More than 3,000 police chiefs, officers, deputies, and other mourners gathered this morning to pay their respects to Whittier officer Keith Boyer, who was murdered two weeks ago by an criminal who benefited from Jerry Brown's dangerous prison policies.
Officers at the Calvary Chapel in Downey removed their hats and took their seats as Boyers casket was placed just a few feet away from his gloves and his hat.
Pastor James Kaddis told the crowd:
"As I see the badges out there I see heroes. When you come against law enforcement you come against God.”
Boyer was only 53-years-old and was the father of two sons and a daughter . He is the first Whittier officer to be killed in the line of duty in 37 years.
Whittier Police Chief Jeff Piper said:
"I cannot find the words to describe the magnitude of the loss. In nearly 27 years of police work, Keith remained committed to his profession. He loved his job, he loved his colleagues, he loved his community."
A video screen surrounded by flowers displayed a picture of Boyer next to his badge. A band across the badge read: "EOW 2/20/17."
EOW stands for "End of Watch."
Rest in peace, Officer Keith Boyer.