Preserving L.A. County Sheriff’s Dept. history from past to 2025
When an explosion killed three Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies last month, Mike Fratantoni reflected on a historical event from 1857.
Back then, a horse thief named Juan Flores escaped from San Quentin State Prison and joined a group called Las Manillas. They traveled south, robbing stores and killing a shopkeeper in San Juan Capistrano. Despite warnings, Los Angeles County Sheriff James R. Barton and his men were ambushed near the interchange of State Route 133 and the 405 Freeway in Irvine, now known as Barton Mound.
At that time, Orange County was part of L.A. County, with a population of just over 11,000. California was a new state transitioning from the Mexican period to the Wild West.
Reflecting on the recent tragedy, Fratantoni, the Sheriff’s Department’s staff historian, highlighted the dangers of law enforcement throughout history. Sheriff Robert Luna, addressing the deaths of Detectives Joshua Kelley-Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborn in the recent explosion, noted that it was the department’s deadliest day in over 160 years.
The three detectives killed in the explosion had a combined 74 years of law enforcement experience and left behind 16 children. Fratantoni, responsible for preserving the department’s history, shared insights into past events and figures, serving as a valuable resource for colleagues and the public.
Fratantoni, who has held his position for a decade, plays a crucial role in educating current and future department members about its history. He oversees a museum in the basement of the Hall of Justice, showcasing the Sheriff’s Department's legacy and engaging visitors with artifacts and stories from the past.
The museum, funded and maintained by the Sheriffs’ Relief Foundation, offers insights into the department's 175-year history through displays of weapons, inmate creations, and notable cases. Fratantoni's dedication to preserving the department's legacy and educating others underscores the importance of understanding its past.
Fratantoni's efforts extend beyond the museum, as he engages with recruits, community events, and commemorative projects. Despite the recent tragedy and ongoing responsibilities, he remains committed to honoring the department's history and ensuring that the sacrifices of past law enforcement officers are not forgotten.