The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) extends our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Correctional Officer Lavell Sanders, Jr., who passed away on August 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with stage 4 gastric cancer.

Officer Sanders began his state service in November 2018 with the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) at the Ventura Youth Correctional Facility as a Youth Correctional Counselor. When DJJ closed in June 2023, he transferred to the California Institution for Men (CIM), where he served until his untimely passing.

In a statement, CIM expressed the loss felt by his colleagues:

“Officer Sanders will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing and working side by side with him. Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Lavell leaves behind his wife, Nicole, and their children — Charlie (12), Sammie (11), and Ty (6). The CPOF was honored to provide catastrophic assistance to Nicole and the Sanders family during this heartbreaking time, helping ease some of the immediate burdens that accompany such a devastating loss.

This is the very heart of our mission: “Taking Care of Our Own.” Through the Catastrophic Assistance Program, the CPOF stands with correctional families across the nation during times of tragedy, whether due to illness, injury, or line-of-duty death.

As we remember Officer Sanders for his dedicated service and commitment, we also recognize the enduring strength of his family and the correctional community. Information regarding services will be shared as it becomes available.