Peace Officers Research Association of California
Public safety has always been a dangerous profession, and our members put their lives on the line each and every day to help keep our families and communities safe. As part of POREF, PORAC’s in-house Fund-A-Hero fundraising platform allows us to monitor and administer the fundraising process from start to finish, providing financial relief to officers and their families who have been tragically impacted by a line-of-duty death, near fatal injury or catastrophic event.
On Tuesday, February 24th, Sergeant Jason Whelen of the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office suffered a medical emergency while on duty. Despite immediate and extensive life-saving efforts, Sergeant Whelen tragically passed away.
$40,023.00 raised of $50,000.00
On February 15, 2026, Code Compliance Inspector Humberto Estrada passed away due to health complications. Inspector Estrada served with San Diego Transit Enforcement for the past year, where he was a valued member of the team. He was also a proud member of PORAC, demonstrating his commitment to the law enforcement profession and to supporting his fellow officers.
$2,995.00 raised of $20,000.00
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our SEBA President and PORAC Board Member, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Sgt. Grant Ward, who courageously battled cancer and passed peacefully on February 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, and family.
$47,215.00 raised of $100,000.00
It is with tremendous heartbreak and sadness that we share the sudden loss of Oxnard Police Department Commander Scott Aaron.
$6,646.00 raised of $20,000.00
We are reaching out to ask for support for David George, a Sergeant at the Kern County Sheriff’s Office who has served our community for 18 years. Since Memorial Day last year, David has been unable to work and was later diagnosed with Stage Four pancreatic cancer. David does not want the attention and has kept his struggle private for a long time, but now he is asking for our help.
$3,271.00 raised of $50,000.00
It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Gustavo Barroso, a beloved member of the MiraCosta Police Department family, who tragically passed away in his sleep at just 29 years old. Gus was more than a dedicated police officer—he was a son, brother, and friend whose kindness and generosity touched everyone he met.
$995.00 raised of $10,000.00
We are fundraising on behalf of Deputy Wil Herrera, a 20-year veteran peace officer. Wil is currently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and beginning his battle with this horrible disease. Wil is a dedicated father to three boys, a loving partner to his significant other, and a friend to countless others.
$20,138.00 raised of $50,000.00
