After consultations and weeks of internal discussions, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office says it will not attend tomorrow’s opening of Andy’s Unity Park in Moorland.
SCSO spokesman Sgt. Spencer Crum said earlier this week that “we want to be a part of the healing process in the community and if the community isn’t ready for us to join them in the opening, then we will keep their sensitivities in mind.”
The agency met Thursday to make its decision.
Andy Lopez was shot and killed by an SCSO officer in 2013 while carrying a replica AK-47.
The agency reached out for input from 5th District Sonoma County Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, Sonoma County Parks, and community members, Crum said.
“We recognize the opening of Andy’s Unity Park to be an important day of healing and moving forward. We don’t want to upset the Lopez’ family and friends or create any negative distraction so, with full mindfulness, we will not be in attendance. We do look forward to our continued work in the community, though, and the residents can call us anytime and get our full support.”
