MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - The Marysville City Council opened its April 1 meeting with a moment of silence for Osmar Rodarte, a 27-year-old Marysville Police officer who lost his life in the line of duty on March 26.

Councilmember Brad Hudson thanked everyone in the community for coming together and supporting “our blue-line family.”

Councilmember Marjorie Rollins said there was an incredible outpouring of support for Officer Rodarte’s family and the “prayers and thoughts quickly transformed into action, showcasing the profound impact he had on our community.”

Councilmember Stuart Gilchrist was too overcome with emotions to comment on the tragedy at this time and Vice- Mayor Bruce Buttacavoli said donations for the officer’s family are being collected by Back the Badge.

Mayor Chris Branscum said he had “the privilege of participating in the procession that took (Rodarte’s) mortal remains from Marysville to Placer County.”

 “It was one of the most moving experiences of my life,” Branscum said, and there were many moments that brought him to tears. 

In other council news, the Marysville City Council issued a proclamation recognizing April as Sexual Assault Prevention Month. Mayor Branscum read the proclamation, stating, “It is essential that we raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and its devastating impact on individuals and communities.”

According to Branscum, the City of Marysville is committed to providing a safe environment for everyone. It supports the collaboration of local agencies, law enforcement and healthcare professionals to prevent sexual assault, support survivors and advocate for change.

The City Council also recognized April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Mayor Branscum read the proclamation: “Child abuse remains a significant concern in our society, affecting thousands of children, the most helpless among us… Every child has the right to grow up in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment.”

The city is dedicated to protecting children from abuse and neglect by “fostering healthy families, promoting positive parenting, and providing access to resources and support,” said Branscum. Local organizations, schools, law enforcement and health care professionals work to identify at-risk children and provide intervention services, public awareness and support for children affected by abuse.

Both proclamations were presented to the program director for Casa De Esperanza, which provides free services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and human trafficking. The agency has been operating in Yuba, Sutter and Colusa counties for more than 40 years.