Deputy succumbs to cancer

Detention officer Alexander Matlaga passed away Oct. 5 after a long battle with cancer.

Matlaga, who had been hospitalized in the last stages of terminal cancer, was released from the hospital late last month in order to spend his final days with his family in Arizona.

Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith said the department was saddened by Matlaga’s death.

“Deputy Matlaga’s dedication to the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement will be deeply missed," Smith said.

Members of the Sheriff’s Office held a silent auction on Sept. 23 to raise funds for the stricken deputy. The department raised over $3,000 to help pay Matlaga’s medical expenses.

In keeping with Deputy Matlaga’s wishes, the family will hold a private memorial service in Arizona with close family.

Matlaga was 28 years old.