It has been the most difficult week in the 26-year law enforcement career for Kent Police Chief Rafael Padilla.
Over the past several days he’s been mourning the death of Officer Diego Moreno, an eight-year veteran on the force. Padilla remembers him not just for his work as an officer, but for his character and kindness for others.
“He was an outstanding crime fighter, investigator, really strong in the technical skills of law enforcement, but where he truly shined and where his gifts were just caring for people,” Padilla said. “Our mission is to aggressively fight crime while serving with compassion, and that serving with compassion part was truly who he was and what he was about.”
Padilla said they have received an overwhelming amount of support from so many different individuals, businesses, and law enforcement agencies.
“The outpouring of love and support that we have received has been immeasurable. Truly. From every aspect, every walk, from the business community, kids in neighborhoods, kids in schools, and then there’s the huge support that we get from our brothers and sisters in blue,” Padilla said. “The neighboring agencies, agencies from across the country have reached out, hundreds of letters, e-mails, well wishes, cards, flowers, as you’ve seen out front at the memorial.”
“The tributes that we have received from him have been so specific and detailed. People remember him, people were impacted by him, particularly children. Taking the time to write about their experience with Officer Moreno,” Chief Padilla said.
Moreno is survived by his wife and two young kids.
If you’d like to make a donation to help his family you can do that by going to any U.S. Bank location and donating under the Diego Moreno Memorial Fund. There is also a collection for the thousands of dollars in expenses for the memorial service. The Kent Police Foundation Fund is collecting checks at Kent Police Department. Any leftover money will be donated directly to his family.
Padilla hopes you consider a donation as a way to honor a wonderful man.
“Diego was truly exceptional," Padilla said. "You hear the adage the best, brightest and finest of us. He certainly was. It’s why he has had such an impact.”
