[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 16003]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING SERGEANT STEVEN C. OWEN

  Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, today I ask my colleagues to join me in 
honoring the life of Sergeant Steven C. Owen, a beloved husband and 
father who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on October 5, 
2016.
  Sergeant Owen was born in Encino, CA, and proudly joined the Los 
Angeles County Sheriff's department almost three decades ago. He spent 
most of his career at the Lancaster Sheriff's station, patrolling the 
streets of his Antelope Valley community with pride. Well known for his 
courage as well as kindness, Sergeant Owen received a Meritorious 
Conduct Medal in 2014 after safely rescuing a hostage held at gunpoint, 
devising the rescue plan and ensuring that his deputies were kept out 
of harm's way.
  Colleagues fondly remembered Sergeant Owen's tireless work ethic, 
selfless nature, and deep commitment to the community he served. 
``Sergeant Owen had the qualities of a religious man--maybe a priest, a 
minister or a rabbi, or someone who took vows to serve mankind,'' said 
Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell. ``He fed the hungry, he 
clothed those who needed it, and Steve Owen comforted the 
traumatized.''
  Outside of work, Sergeant Owen spent most of his time volunteering, 
coaching youth football, and mentoring young students. He also taught 
landlords and businessowners how to reduce crime on their properties. A 
skilled water-skier and equestrian, Sergeant Owen also enjoyed camping 
and gardening in his free time.
  Above all else, Sergeant Owen was devoted to his family and his 
faith. On behalf of the people of California, whom Sergeant Owen served 
so bravely, I extended my gratitude and deepest sympathies to his wife, 
Tania; children, Branden, Chadd, and Shannon; and his entire extended 
family.

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