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Police honored 5 years after shootout
By: Brent Begin
Examiner Staff Writer
10/15/09 8:00 AM PDT
It took more than five years, but the San Francisco Police Department handed out 20 medals Wednesday night for a 2004 gun battle.
Ten officers received the department's prestigious gold medal of valor, six received silver and three received bronze for a June 29, 2004 showdown in the Mission Terrace neighborhood.
Gus Rugley, 21, was killed by San Francisco police officers after he began shooting at officers. Police said Rugley had several outstanding warrants, including one for attempted murder. Rugley was shot dozens of times by the officers and died at the scene.
During the incident, officer Michael Lewis injured his head in a car collision. Lewis was awarded the Purple Heart.
Why the five-year delay? In fatal officer-involved shootings the Police Commission chooses to wait until any complaints related to the incident have been resolved.
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