Death of Lt. John Reynolds from COVID-19 complications

PRESS RELEASE

DATE: January 17, 2021

SUBJECT: Death of Lt. John Reynolds from COVID-19 complications- EOW 01-17-2021

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Lt. John Reynolds from COVID-19 complications. Lt. Reynolds was 59-years-old, and passed away early this morning in the hospital. John had been valiantly fighting the virus since the end of November.

Lt. John Reynolds has been employed with the Garden Grove Police Department for over 25 years. Prior to joining the Garden Grove Police Department, John was a probation officer with the Orange County Probation Department for nine years. John was a dedicated public servant who loved his career and loved serving his community.

John had a very successful career working a variety assignments. Some of John’s assignments included working patrol, gang officer, SWAT, undercover investigator, and Sergeant assigned to the Youth Services Unit. John was promoted to lieutenant in 2018 and was assigned as a Watch Commander.

John loved serving the youth of our community. He served as an executive board member and past president of the Garden Grove Boys and Girls Club and he was an active volunteer with the Kiwanis Club of Greater Garden Grove. Some of his many awards included being named Officer of the Year in 2005 and 2006, recipient of the Garden Grove Medal of Merit for his work with the Garden Grove Unified School District in 2014, and the Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce “Man of the Year” in 2019.

John’s passing leaves a void and pain in our hearts. He is survived by his wife Jena, two adult daughters, and his 18-month old son. Please keep John and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Carl Whitney, Lieutenant
Professional Standards Division / PIO
O: 714.741.5786 W/C: 714.741.5871
24 Hour: 714.741.5704