Sergeant Major Robert J. Cottle, United States Marine Corps (USMC), a former Los Angeles Police Department officer, was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan while serving in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

Cottle had been deployed on active duty since August 2009.  He served with the 4th LAR Battalion, Headquarters Company, 4th Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California.

Cottle was appointed to the LAPD on September 10, 1990.  He had been assigned to Metropolitan Division since February 1996 and his most recent assignment was in “D” Team, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) as a Police Officer III+I.

“This deeply saddens me, especially since I’ve known RJ for over 20 years,” said LAPD Chief Charlie Beck.  “He is a fine man and a great example of the best LAPD has to offer.  He will be missed.”

The LAPD asks that community members keep Officer Cottle’s family members, friends and his extended LAPD family in their thoughts and prayers.