The San Diego Police Officer Association announced the passing of officer Gary Bowen, a 23-year veteran of the force and acclaimed sketch artist of the county.
The former marine and veteran police officer was one of only two police sketch artists in San Diego county. According to the San Diego Police Officers Association, Bowen died on Wednesday.
After 120 hours of training at his own expense, Bowen became a certified sketch artist.
His work was often seen on Crime Stoppers and was known to identify perpetrators in about 100 cases. According to the SDPOA, Bowen was the SDPD's only sketch artist for the last eight years.
"This unique skill set brought many criminals to justice to no longer victimize those within their communities," the association said in a statement.
According to the association, Bowen served as a member of the SDPD honor guard team for many years, where he paid respect to fallen officers all across the state and county.
In his last assignment, Gary served on the SDPD Homeless Outreach Team. According to the association, he "worked tirelessly to get people into a shelter and onto an improved path in life," according to the association.
It was said Bowen had offered advice to witnesses trying to identify the suspect and compared the process to putting together a Mr. Potato Head.
The San Diego Police Officer Association established a fundraiser via Help A Hero with a goal of $25,000 to help with funeral expenses. As of Jan.17, 26 donors collectively contributed $2,155.
"Gary had a wicked sense of humor and loved to laugh with his family. He leaves behind his wife Monica and their two sons, Trevor and Alex. It is said that his greatest pride was his two sons," the association said in a statement.
