Veteran Officer Forced Into Retirement Is Fighting City

It was David Castillo’s turn in the rotation.

Every three years, officers in the Alhambra Police Department rotate stints in patrol jobs. But when his three-year tenure as a detective in the investigations department ended last month, the 38-year-old officer was told that not only wasn’t he going back out on patrol, he was going to retire.

After inhaling noxious fumes at the scene of an accident in 1991, Castillo became ill and herniated two discs in his neck from repeated violent vomiting. He said he has recovered fully from the incident, and within two years he returned to active duty. The officer has had two documented medical examinations--which attorneys for the city are reviewing--that indicate he is fit enough to stay on the force, Castillo said.

The city, which is reviewing its initial decision, could still force Castillo into medical retirement, a prospect that angers his family and many in the community.

“He is one of our best officers,” said Jackie Olivier, an Alhambra activist and 35-year resident who is helping to organize the Officer David Castillo No Forced Retirement Defense Fund to help pay legal fees.

Police officers and community activists are planning a fund-raiser from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday at El Gordo restaurant in San Gabriel. A $17 donation is requested, Olivier said.

City Manager Julio Fuentes said he could not comment on personnel matters, and the Castillo family said it is unsure why Castillo is being asked to retire.

The city has put Castillo on paid administrative leave until the issue is resolved, Linda Castillo said.

But those are just small victories, and “with our city we can never be sure they’re going to do the right thing,” said Joe Flannagan, vice president of the Alhambra Police Officers Assn.

Medical retirement would provide the Castillos with only half his pay, tax-free for the rest of the officer’s life. Linda Castillo does not work, and with four sons, Castillo said he needs to keep working.

Plus, Linda Castillo added: “He’s a man. Once a man makes his mind up about a career, that’s what he wants to do.”