LOS ANGELES –On January 17, 2021, Exposition Park Department of Public Safety (DPS) Museum Security Officer Jesus Castillo, a member of the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) and a Gulf War Veteran, passed away from complications associated with COVID 19.  Officer Castillo served the DPS honorably for more than 20 years and dedicated his professional life to making Exposition Park a safe place for visitors, students, and employees.

“This has been a troubling time for public safety officers as they continue their essential duties to protect during the pandemic,” said CSLEA President Alan Barcelona.  “Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Castillo’s family and our CSLEA members at the Department of Public Safety as we know this is a terribly sad loss.”

“Officer Castillo and I started work on the same day over 20 years ago, we interviewed for the job on the same day,” said DPS Sgt. Kenneth Williams. “He was a special man, a great husband and father. It was family first with him, followed by our country and the job. He had a long distinguished and impeccable career with the Department that included several accommodations and he will be sorely missed.”

Prior to his employment with the DPS, Officer Castillo served in the United States Marine Corps and was a veteran of the Gulf War.  He leaves behind his wife of 26 years, Reyna Villegas, as well as three sons – Andrew (15),  Angel (22) and Adrian Castillo (25).

Officer Castillo was known for his love of feeding other people and helping those in need.  A leader among his peers, Officer Castillo was a source of support and wisdom for fellow officers.  He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and coworkers.

"My staff and I are deeply saddened by Officer Castillo's passing," said Ana M. Lasso, General Manager in the Office of Exposition Park Management. "The COVID-19 pandemic has presented extremely difficult challenges for all of us, especially for our first responders. On behalf my team here at OEPM, I extend our condolences to Officer Castillo's family and our sincere appreciation for his dedication to public service."

"Officer Castillo served the DPS honorably for 20 years and dedicated his professional life to making Exposition Park a safe place for visitors, students, and employees," said CHP Captain David Dashiell, who is Acting Chief of the DPS. "He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and coworkers.”

A memorial fund has been established to assist with Officer Castillo's family during this difficult time. Donations are being accepted in the name of Reyna Villegas Castillo at California Credit Union, PO Box 60085, City of Industry, CA 91716.

The Exposition Park DPS is a state law enforcement agency responsible for police and security services at Exposition Park, a 160-acre state park south of downtown Los Angeles. The park is home to the California Science Center, California African American Museum, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles County Natural History Museum, and Banc of California Stadium. It is the future home of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, which is currently under construction.