LAPD Mourns Death of SWAT Officer Robert RJ Cottle NR10154kr

Cottle was Tragically Killed during Military Deployment in Afghanistan

Los Angeles:  It is with great sadness that we report the death of a respected and valued member of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) who was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan while serving in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
 
The LAPD has learned through family contacts of the death of 45-year-old Sergeant Major Robert J. Cottle, United States Marine Corps Reserve (USMCR).  In the near  future, the Department of Defense and the USMCR will formally release his name and the circumstances related to his death in accordance with military protocols. Cottle had been deployed on active duty since August 2009.  He served with the 4th LAR Battalion, Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California.

Cottle was appointed to the LAPD on Sept. 10, 1990.  He had been assigned to Metropolitan Division since February 1996 and his most recent assignment was in “D” Team, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) as a Police Officer III+I. 

"This deeply saddens me, especially since I’ve known RJ for over 20 years,” said LAPD Chief Charlie Beck.  “He is a fine man and a great example of the best LAPD has to offer.  He will be missed."

Whether Cottle was serving the people of Los Angeles or serving the people of the United States,  he did so with honor, integrity and commitment.  His death will leave a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, and his contributions to the Department will be greatly missed.  He is survived by his wife and a 9-month-old daughter.

We ask that community members keep Officer Cottle’s family members, friends and his extended LAPD family in their thoughts and prayers.