Deputy Sheriff Arthur E. Pelino, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California

Deputy Sheriff Arthur E. Pelino

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, March 19, 1978

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Arthur E. Pelino

Deputy Sheriff Arthur Pelino was shot and killed by a mentally deranged suspect.

Deputy Pelino was the Resident Deputy in the rural town of Gorman. He had arrested a mentally deranged man that was known to have been violent but canceled deputies who were responding to back him up after stating he had the situation under control. Deputy Pelino took the suspect back to his office to start the booking process.

During the booking process, the suspect started to struggle and was able to get Deputy Pelino's service weapon. The man then shot and killed Deputy Pelino and sat down in the office.

Two of Deputy Pelino's children found him and the suspect and ran to get help. Deputy Pelino's wife was able to get the suspect into a cell and call for assistance.

Deputy Pelino had served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 21 years. He was survived by his wife, three sons, and three daughters.

Bio

Age 50
Tour 21 years
Badge 1145

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to 2 1/2 years

EDP, prisoner custody

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Pelino was a friend to our family when I was young living in Newhall. He would visit us at home and I will always remember his smile and warm manner. It was such a shock to hear that he had been killed while working alone in Gorman. I now live in Lake of the Woods near Gorman, and I often reflect on Officer Pelino whenever I drive past or go there to a restaurant. Thank you Art for your service, and your kindness. You are still remembered.

Kevin M Woten
Friend

December 17, 2022