EOW 8/21/01 - Deputy Erik Telen

Today we honor fallen Fresno County Sheriff’s Deputy Erik Jon Telen who was gunned down by a burglary suspect in the mountains of Fresno County (Dunlap, CA) on August 21, 2001.

The Fresno Deputy Sheriff’s Association will never forget the solemn day, 22 years ago - August 21, 2001. This changed our deputies and shook this agency. Nobody in our agency had ever dealt with another deputy sheriff being murdered in the line of duty.

There is a stone monument that sits at the front door of the Telen Substation in Squaw Valley – a reminder to all of us past and present.  There is a bridge in the town of Miramonte, memorializing Erik with a bronze plaque. There is a highway sign on Highway 168 reminding drivers of his sacrifice.

Erik loved his family and loved being a deputy sheriff.  Erik had recently come back to the Fresno/Clovis area – joining the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office. After graduating the FCC Police Academy, Eric was hired by the Ontario Police Department where he spent three years as an officer.

Erik is survived by his beautiful children. His son, Erik Jr, born October 1, 2001, will never know his father. Their kids are becoming wonderful additions to this community and we thank Shelly for the job you are doing. Shelly and her children stay in touch with us at the FDSA and continue to strive for excellence in their lives.

Take the time today, as we are at the Fresno Deputy Sheriffs Association, and remember our friend Erik Telen.  Erik paid the ultimate sacrifice for the citizens of Fresno County.