Remembering Officer Elizabeth Butler: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

In the history of the Santa Cruz Police Department, Officer Elizabeth Butler will forever be remembered as a trailblazer and a hero. She was the first female officer in Santa Cruz to be killed in the line of duty, a tragic loss that shook the entire community. Officer Butler’s death, though heartbreaking, highlighted the dangers that officers face daily in protecting their communities.

Elizabeth was not just a police officer—she was a mother, a dedicated public servant, and a beacon of strength for her colleagues and family. Her commitment to keeping Santa Cruz safe and her passion for justice will never be forgotten. Today, we honor her memory and continue to support her family and fellow officers as they cope with this irreplaceable loss.

To learn more about Elizabeth Butler and her legacy, read Lookout Santa Cruz's full article.