On December 3, 2025, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) lost a dedicated and respected officer with the unexpected passing of Correctional Officer Marcus Monzon at the age of 28.
A recent graduate of the correctional training academy, Marcus served at California State Prison–Sacramento for just 20 months, yet left a lasting impression on his colleagues, inmates, and the community.
A native of Elk Grove, Marcus attended Cosumnes Oaks High School and earned an associate degree in criminal justice from Sacramento City College. After graduating from the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in April 2024, he quickly became a reliable and well-liked presence on B-Yard.
Fellow officers remember him for his calm professionalism under pressure, his willingness to take on difficult assignments, and his thoughtful gestures, such as bringing extra drinks for his team during long shifts.
Beyond the uniform, Marcus was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to his wife, Ashley, and a proud father to their two-year-old son and six-month-old daughter. Weekends were filled with coaching his son’s T-ball team, hosting barbecues for coworkers and friends, and restoring his cherished 1972 Chevelle. He also enjoyed fishing on the Delta and cheering on the Sacramento Republic FC with his academy classmates.
In his short career, Marcus exemplified integrity, humility, and quiet strength. He approached his work with a sense of duty and cared deeply for his family, his brothers and sisters in uniform, and his community.
The CDCR has lowered flags to half-staff in his honor, and a memorial fund has been established through the California Correctional Peace Officers Association to support his family. A public funeral service with full departmental honors will be held on December 11, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Elk Grove.
Rest in peace, Officer Marcus Monzon. Your service, your smile, and your steadfast presence will be deeply missed along the thin gray line.
Other Recent Deaths in California
