SBPD Officer Rodriguez awarded Public Safety Medal of Valor

During a ceremony held last week in Sacramento, Governor Gavin Newsom recognized 13 Californians for their service above and beyond the call of duty. Among those was San Bernardino Police Officer Gabriel Rodriguez who received the 2025 Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor, the highest honor the Governor and the state can bestow upon public servants.

“We honor their actions that go well beyond the call of duty,” said Governor Newsom. “Despite the odds being stacked against them, they demonstrated remarkable courage and fortitude, navigating complex situations to help someone in need, even if it cost them greatly.”

Officer Rodriguez received this honor for his heroic actions in 2023:

On December 10, 2023, Officer Rodriguez responded to a 911 call, indicating that an acquaintance of the caller was holding a gun to the head of the caller’s 3-year-old grandson. Upon Officer Rodriguez arriving on the scene, the suspect came outside armed with a handgun and discharged a round before retreating inside and barricading herself and the family inside. Upon recognizing the threat, Officer Rodriguez risked his life, rushed inside, and encountered the suspect again pointing a gun at the 3 year old’s head. Officer Rodriguez immediately fired his weapon and incapacitated the suspect, saving the life of the child and others inside.

Under the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 2003, the Governor may award medals to public safety officers for extraordinary valor. The Attorney General’s Office receives and reviews nominations with the Medal of Valor Review Board, which then makes a recommendation to the Attorney General.

“As California’s Chief Law Enforcement Officer, I am honored to recognize these public safety officials for their courage and their service,” said Attorney General Bonta. “When faced with grave danger, they chose to go far and beyond the call of duty. Their selfless commitment to safety, service, and our communities has a long lasting impact.”