A respected and beloved retired Sergeant of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Harvey “Sandy” Murray Crosthwaite Jr. was remembered by those who knew him as a “gentle giant,” a mentor, and a hero. The 61-year-old man was born on December 9, 1964, and raised in the Sepulveda area of the San Fernando Valley. He was a natural athlete who excelled at baseball and softball, playing in Little League, high school, and college before joining one of the most formidable law
enforcement teams, the LASD Red Team. Friends who knew him for nearly 50 years recalled his friendly competition and the respect he commanded both on and off the field.
Sandy, as he was affectionately known, dedicated his life to public service. He joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department on February 17, 1988, at the age of 24. For more than 34 years, he honorably served the residents of Los Angeles County, earning a reputation as a trusted professional who embodied the highest standards of the department. His colleagues saw him as a bright light in an often-dark world, a leader who was deeply committed to the safety of the public and his fellow officers. He was known for making a huge impact on countless lives while expecting nothing in return.
On September 28, 2026, Harvey Crosthwaite passed away, surrounded by his family. His death was described by his wife as unexpected and untimely, leaving a devastating hole in the lives of his loved ones. He was survived by his wife, Erlinda, whom he cherished as the one true love of his life, and his beloved son, Jason Douglas Crosthwaite. He also left behind four sisters: Elizabeth, Rochelle, Erin, and Lisa.
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and community members. He was described with phrases like “An awesome guy,” “A truly good man,” “One of a kind,” and “Larger-than-life.” A childhood friend, Burt Strogatz, publicly mourned the loss, stating that Sandy had taken his own life. He remembered Sandy as a dear friend who was gone but would never be forgotten. Many remembered him as someone instrumental in their own growth as a spouse, parent, and leader.
His family’s tribute in his obituary spoke of a man who felt things deeply even if he did not show his pain. His wife, Erlinda, called him the strongest man she had ever known, her “Superman and hero.” She wrote, “He was the most loving, understanding, amazing husband and father I’ve ever known. Sandy loved me and Jason more than mere words can express, and we loved him just as much in return.” The family expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of kindness, compassion, and unwavering support they received from their community.
A celebration of life was held for Sandy on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills. In his memory, his family shared a message of hope and support for others, encouraging anyone who is struggling or in crisis to know that they are not alone and that help is always available. Though his physical presence is gone, his family and friends hold onto his strength, and his spirit lives on through the countless people whose lives he touched.
