Honoring the Vision, Upholding the Legacy: A Tribute to the Builders of CPOF
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation was not born in a boardroom, but in breakrooms, garages, kitchen tables, and after-hours conversations between visionaries who believed in something bigger than themselves. Our founding fathers—correctional professionals working full-time jobs—poured their time, hearts, and hope into building something this profession had never seen: a national Foundation dedicated to Taking […]
With Gratitude: Honoring the Work of Albert “Frog” Zavala
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and deepest appreciation to Albert “Frog” Zavala, photographer for the California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA), for the powerful and moving images he captured during the services honoring CDCR Parole Agent Joshua Byrd. Through his lens, Frog did more than document a […]
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Correctional Officer Joseph Knox
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is honored to support the family of Correctional Officer Joseph Michael Knox, who passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 42, following a courageous battle with angiosarcoma. Joe served with dedication at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey, where he was a valued member […]
CPOF Assists Colorado Lieutenant During Daughter’s Surgery Recovery
At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, our mission of Taking Care of Our Own is rooted in standing by our correctional professionals during times of personal hardship. One such moment recently arose for Lieutenant Scott Burnett, who serves at Fremont Correctional Facility in Colorado. Lt. Burnett’s daughter, Aspen, faced a significant medical challenge that required […]
The Sacred Vigil: Understanding Honor Watch in Law Enforcement
In the solemn traditions of law enforcement, few acts carry as much reverence as the Honor Watch. This sacred vigil is a time-honored custom performed by law enforcement honor guard teams to pay tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty. It is a visual and powerful symbol of unwavering respect, brotherhood, […]
Taking Care of Our Own: Supporting Officer Richard Williamson Jr. in His Time of Loss
At the heart of the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation’s mission is the unwavering commitment to “Take Care of Our Own.” That promise was once again honored as CPOF provided catastrophic assistance to Correctional Officer Richard Delane Williamson Jr. of Suwannee Correctional Institution (SCI) following the sudden and tragic passing of his beloved son, Richard Delane […]
Honoring Parole Agent Joshua Byrd: A Legacy of Service, Courage, and Family
On July 17, 2025, Parole Agent Joshua Lemont Byrd of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) was tragically killed in the line of duty while working at the Oakland Parole Office. The loss sent shockwaves through CDCR and the entire law enforcement community. His life, service, and ultimate […]
Honoring Retired Correctional Officer Todd Boone
“Service runs deep in the Boone family, and so does love.” The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation honors the life and legacy of Retired Correctional Officer Todd Boone, who passed away on July 2, 2025. A devoted public servant, Todd spent 14 years with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), where his dedication, professionalism, […]
CPOF Steps In to Support Officer Thomas Wasson After the Loss of His Beloved Wife
When life’s foundations are shaken by tragedy, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) stands ready to lend a hand through its Catastrophic Assistance Program. In late June, Corrections Officer Thomas Wasson of Maryville Treatment Center in Missouri experienced such a loss when his wife, Bonnie Mary Margaret Wasson, passed away on June 24, 2025, at age 43. Thanks […]
Honoring Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, End of Watch July 17, 2025
July 17, 2025, will forever mark the day our friend and fellow public servant, CDCR Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. A 40‑year‑old veteran with deep Sacramento roots, Josh was more than a dedicated parole agent, he was a beloved teammate, mentor, and family man whose warmth and quiet leadership touched […]
CPO Family Magazine
View current and past issues of the CPO Family Magazine and see the work we’re doing to support our members and their families.
Fallen But Not Forgotten
View the stories of our brothers and sisters who sacrificed their lives while fulfilling the duties of their chosen profession.
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