July 6, 1963 – February 21, 2021
Indiana Department of Correction
End of Watch: February 21, 2021

Five years ago, the corrections profession lost a hero. Today, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation honors the life, service, and sacrifice of Lieutenant Eugene Lee Lasco, who gave his life while protecting one of his own.

On February 21, 2021, inside Indiana State Prison in Michigan City, Lieutenant Lasco responded without hesitation when a fellow officer came under violent attack. An inmate serving a lengthy sentence for multiple murders began assaulting Sergeant Padrick Schmitt with an edged weapon. Hearing the cries for help, Lieutenant Lasco immediately rushed to assist his colleague.

In that moment, Lieutenant Lasco demonstrated the courage and selflessness that define the corrections profession. As he intervened, the inmate turned his weapon on him. Despite the danger, Lieutenant Lasco stood his ground—placing himself between harm and his fellow officer. He was critically wounded in the attack and transported to Franciscan Health Michigan City, where he succumbed to his injuries.

His actions embodied the very meaning of sacrifice. He answered the call not because he had to, but because that is who he was—a protector, a leader, and a brother in uniform.

Lieutenant Lasco served the Indiana Department of Correction for more than 11 years. During his career, he earned the respect of his peers through his dedication, professionalism, and quiet strength. He served as a locksmith, was a member of the Emergency Squad, and contributed to the Technical Response Team for Safety Hazmat. He received numerous accolades for his service and was known as someone others could always count on.

Beyond his career, Eugene Lasco was a proud U.S. Navy veteran, an accomplished marksman, and an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and music. He was also deeply committed to his community, supporting the Special Olympics and participating in events like the Polar Plunge to raise awareness and funds.

Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia; his children; stepchildren; and nine grandchildren—each carrying forward his legacy of strength and love.

When Lieutenant Lasco answered the call to help his fellow officer, he demonstrated what correctional professionals know to be true: that inside the walls, they rely on one another completely. His sacrifice was not only an act of bravery, but a reflection of the unbreakable bond shared by those who serve.

Correctional officers are often called the “forgotten law enforcement,” yet Lieutenant Lasco’s life and sacrifice remind us why their service must never be forgotten.

Five years later, his memory lives on—in the halls where he served, in the hearts of his family, and in the corrections community that continues to honor him.

At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, we pause to remember Lieutenant Eugene Lee Lasco and reaffirm our promise to always stand beside the families of the fallen.

Because of heroes like Gene, we are reminded what it truly means to Take Care of Our Own.