Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Thank you for your service and rest in peace knowing that your service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 30, 2020

Rest in peace Patrolman Cleveland.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

September 28, 2019

I joined the Elberton Police Department in January of 2013. One of the first things I learned about the history of our department was your story. The loss of such a sheepdog was tragic, but the lessons learned have burned into my memory. Not every situation can be resolved peacefully, and it sometimes the peacekeepers have to become warriors just to keep the peace that we are sworn to uphold. You never got the chance to go home and say goodbye to your family, but I am sure they know that you love them. May your name and deeds be remembered forever, as it is engraved on our badge HDC 5. I have visited your grave at Elmhurst, and reflected on the dangers of our calling, and through your sacrifice I have learned to be ever vigilant, and I am honored to wear the shield that bears your initials and your number above my own. Thank you for holding the line, brother.

Officer Rick Carter #913
Elberton Police Department, Elberton Georgia

May 22, 2014

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 62nd anniversary year of your death.

Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

August 13, 2013

Patrolman Cleveland thank you for your sacrifice and service to the the citizens of Elberton, the State of Georgia, and this great country we call The United States of America. I learned of this line of duty death from your granddaughter. I can say I was proud to know some of the Cleveland family while she was a part of my life. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten as a HERO behind the badge.

D/S Andrew D. Roedel
Jackson County Sheriff's Department - Marianna, FL

April 3, 2012

Rest in Peace, Patrolman Cleveland. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

March 25, 2012

Daddy, this is the 56th anniversary of your tragic death. Sure doesn't seem that long in many ways; in other ways it seems a lifetime which really, it has been. It has taken me a long time to work through my grief and profound sorrow of losing you in such a terrible way when I was just 6 years old. You would be proud, Daddy, that several years ago I met the son of the man who killed you. Over coffee we discussed how the tragedy had impacted our lives. It was clear to me that he had suffered a loss and was still living with the guilt that "I should have done more that day; if I had perhaps both our fathers would be alive." I let him know that I didn't hold any grudge against him. Forgiveness spread over both of us...it was so soothing and the relief was great. God is so good. We hugged and parted, both sensing that our lives could go on with more peace about our losses. I miss you always, Daddy. Only God could love you more, Patty
PS: Thanks to those of you who have taken the time to add reflections/support.

Pat Cleveland
Daughter

September 7, 2007

I have been with Elberton PD for a little over five years now and have always heard great things about you from your family members that have visited the PD and at the yearly gravesite ceremony that is held in your honor and memory. You were a brave individual that made the ulitmate sacrifice and I would just like to say thanks for your service. You will never be forgotten.

Sgt Stephanie Hughes
Elberton PD

April 2, 2007

You are a true hero to us all and you will never be forgotten for your sacrifice. God bless you and keep you always.

DE
St. Louis City Police

June 29, 2005

You are the grandfather that I never got to know. You died in the line of duty long before I existed. I wish I could have known you.

duty officer drew
washington county sheriffs office

May 3, 2004

Thank you Sir. You are in our thoughts.

Detective T. Henshaw
Bell Gardens Police Department, CA

April 22, 2004