Slain Cop's Partner Fights Killer's Parole

Slain SDPD Officer Archie Buggs' partner is trying to keep convicted cop killer Jesus Cecena behind bars

Slain SDPD Officer Archie Buggs' partner is trying to keep convicted cop killer Jesus Cecena behind bars.

Cecena killed Buggs with a bullet to the head more than 30 years ago.

Time is supposed heal old wounds. But try telling that to former police officer Jesse Navarro.

β€œI held him in my arms,β€œ said Navarro fighting back tears.

Nearly 36 years later, the memory was still too much for Navarro who teared up thinking about what happened on November 3, the night his brother-in-blue was gunned down execution style in the line of duty.

β€œHe executed Archie by shooting him in the head," Navarro said.

"I get here hoping, praying I could save him."

The former San Diego police officer's pain compounded by the state parole board's decision to release Jesus Cecena who had received a life sentence behind bars.

They had many an encounter on the streets of Southeast San Diego.

"He was just violent, vicious and mean. No regard for anyone including his family," the officer recalled.

According to parole hearing transcripts one of the reasons for Cecena's release at the age of 52 is that officials believe he has matured to a point he doesn't pose a violent risk.

Navarro is crafting a letter to appeal the parole board’s decision.

If not for him, he says, then for the deceased officer and soldier who thought of his family in his dying breath.

”'If something happens to me please take care of my mom and sister,'" Navarro says Buggs asked of him.

The DA’s office, the head of the police union and other police are writing letters to the governor who has the ability to over-ride the parole board's decision.
 

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