A Fundraiser to Honor Laguna Beach PD's Heroes

By Perc Westmore 

Laguna Beach took one giant leap forward last week in its efforts to create a memorial site for us to visit and reflect on the sacrifice that the Laguna Beach Police Department makes for us each and every day.

Officers Gordon French and Jon Coutchie sacrificed theirs: French in 1953, and Coutchie only four months ago.  

Mare Culinary Lounge hosted the event, and it was shoulder-to-shoulder inside and out. Owner Alessandro Pirozzi and his chefs served an array of fabulous food. 

When the police department loses one of their own, they come out in full force. There was a strong sense of comfort and strength throughout the evening as family, friends and colleagues remembered and honored the lives of the two fallen officers. 

Speeches were given by Det. Larry Bammer, Police Chief Paul Workman, Lt. Jeff Calvert, and the mother of Jon, Luciana Coutchie. Silent and live auctions were held, and the Pawn Shop Kings provided live entertainment for the remainder of the evening. 

To donate to this memorial site, please send donations to the Laguna Beach Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1628, Laguna Beach, 92652. Checks can be made to “LBCF-LB Police Officer Memorial Artwork Fund.”