Vigil Remembers Slain SWAT Officer Shaun Diamond
POMONA (CBSLA.com) — An emotional vigil was held in front of Pomona Police headquarters Thursday evening for Shaun Diamond, the SWAT officer killed in the line of duty early Tuesday morning.
KCAL9's Crystal Cruz attended the vigil amid scores of people who knew Diamond and many who did not.
"God, we thank you for the life of Shaun Diamond," said one worshiper.
A large crowd, including Erika Orozco, who didn't personally know Diamond, showed up.
"I was born and raised here, so I respect that someone will actually dedicate their life and save others to protect our city," said Orozco.
Diamond was shot Tuesday morning while serving a search warrant. On Wednesday, the department announced he had died.
David Martinez, 36, who is faces a murder charge in the shooting, made his first court appearance Thursday morning.
His attorney said his client was being mistreated.
"My client informs me he is being held in custody naked," said Martinez' attorney in court Thursday.
Martinez claimed he was being held naked without food, but a jail spokesperson says that's not true and that's he's being watched closely and has been given a cloth to wear that can't be torn.
The lights at the police station are blue, perhaps a reflection the city's mood, including the Pomona police chief.
"I wish I had an army of Shauns because he is that person, is wonderful with the community," Chief Paul Capraro said.
Diamond will be laid to rest next Thursday at a location to be determined.
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