I would like to adjourn tonight’s meeting in memory of Gregory Morris Augusta, a longtime and respected member of our community who passed away last month following a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Greg was born in Brawley, California, in 1950 and attended both San Diego State and Sacramento State Universities, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 1987.
He later graduated from law school, earning a Juris Doctorate from the University of La Verne, a feat he accomplished through night courses while working full time.
Greg always had a passion for law and justice, which led him to a long and distinguished career with the California Highway Patrol that spanned 33 years.
His career started after graduating from the CHP academy in 1972, and throughout his career, he worked in East Los Angeles, El Centro, South Los Angeles, Newhall and at CHP Headquarters in Sacramento.
While he enjoyed all of his assignments, Greg noted that his fondest memories were as the Newhall Area Commander from 1989 to 1995, where he took time to instill character and trust in his officers that would lead to their personal and professional growth.
During his career, Greg oversaw traffic following the freeway collapse due to the 1994 Northridge Earthquake.
He also attended the FBI Academy, supervised security for both the 1984 Olympics and the 2000 Democratic National Convention, and attended the International Law Enforcement Conference in England.
When he retired, he was one of a select few who had served as both the Assistant Commissioner of Staff and Assistant Commissioner of Field, two of CHP’s highest rankings.
He was more than just a law enforcement officer – he was a family man.
He loved spending time with his wife, Alisanne and his daughter, Nicole.
Greg will be remembered for his leadership and wisdom, as well as his generosity and love.
We are saddened by Greg’s passing, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this time.