The president of the San Diego Police Officers Association said Sunday that 100 percent of the fund created in the name of slain officer Jonathan DeGuzman will be given to his family, while warning potential donors of the possibility of scams.
"Supporting this fund is the way to ensure that 100 percent of your contribution will be dedicated to supporting the family of Jonathan DeGuzman during this difficult time," said Brian Marvel, president of the SDPOA. "We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and reassuring words from the community and want to do everything we can to bring comfort to Officer DeGuzman's family."
Marvel also cautioned well-wishers.
"Unfortunately, during times of tragedies such as this, scammers and imitators often try to take advantage of the public's generosity and create funds that aren't entirely dedicated to the effort to support the family," he said. "We want to ensure people are aware that our fund is completely dedicated to assisting DeGuzman's family."
Donations can be mailed to: San Diego Police Officers Association, 8388 Vickers St., San Diego, CA 92111.
Checks can be made payable to the San Diego Police Officers Association or SDPOA. If the donor writes "Officer Jonathan DeGuzman" in the memo line, then all donations will go directly to the family.
The SDPOA is also accepting online donations.
Again, donors should indicate "Officer Jonathan DeGuzman" in the notes of the online donation.
DeGuzman and fellow gang unit officer Wade Irwin were shot Thursday night in Southcrest. Irwin survived the attack and is expected to make a full recovery, according to police.
Jesse Michael Gomez, 52, was shot by the officers and was hospitalized in critical condition. He is expected to be charged with the murder and attempted murder of the two officers.
At SDPD headquarters downtown, a steady stream of well-wishers continued to leave flowers, candles and notes throughout the weekend at the fallen officers memorial at 1401 Broadway.
