The New York City Department of Correction and the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association (COBA) are in mourning as they remember the brave life of Correction Officer Horen Sterling, who heroically passed away on military leave in Virginia on March 24. Officer Sterling, a dedicated member of the Department of Correction for seven years, served with valor at the Otis Bantum Correctional Center (OBCC) on Rikers Island. His sudden passing has left a profound sense of loss within the Department, the COBA, and the community at large, as they honor the life and legacy of an officer who gave his all in service to both his country and his city.
Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie expressed the collective grief of the department, stating, “The Department of Correction tragically lost a member of service who was bravely serving our country on military leave. Whether serving the city or nation, our Officers are heroes, and this loss weighs heavily on his Boldest Family.” These words encapsulate the tremendous loss felt by all who knew Officer Sterling, as well as the broader community of correctional officers and law enforcement personnel. Horen Sterling’s life was marked by a commitment to service, and his passing has left a void that is difficult to put into words. His dedication to both his work at OBCC and his role in the military serves as a testament to the values of bravery, duty, and selflessness that defined him.
Officer Sterling’s remarkable dedication to his duties did not go unnoticed. He was highly respected and well-liked among his peers, known not only for his professionalism but also for his warm spirit and camaraderie. Sterling’s colleagues at OBCC described him as someone who brought a positive energy to the workplace, always ready to lend a hand or offer a kind word when needed. His work ethic and commitment to maintaining safety and security at the correctional facility were exemplary, and he earned the admiration of both his fellow officers and the department’s leadership.
Sterling’s colleagues remember him as a hardworking, dependable, and approachable individual. He was the type of officer who went above and beyond the call of duty, taking pride in ensuring that the environment within OBCC remained safe for both staff and inmates. But beyond his professional accomplishments, it was his character that truly set him apart. Sterling was a man who made others feel valued, and his presence on the job was a source of comfort and assurance to his fellow officers. His ability to foster a sense of community within the department speaks volumes about the type of person he was—one who cared deeply for those around him and was committed to helping others in any way he could.
The deep sense of loss felt by his fellow officers speaks volumes about the impact he made in his role. Officer Sterling’s absence will be keenly felt by those who worked alongside him at OBCC and throughout the department. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of serving with him, and his contributions to the safety and well-being of the correctional facility and its staff will not be forgotten. In a profession where camaraderie and teamwork are essential, Officer Sterling’s bond with his peers was unshakeable, and it is this connection that will be missed the most by those who called him a colleague and friend.
In this difficult time, the COBA family extends their deepest condolences to Officer Sterling’s family, friends, and colleagues. “Our hearts go out to his entire family, including his OBCC family,” said a representative from COBA. “We will do all that we can to support them during this painful time.” The outpouring of support from the COBA family and the broader correctional community highlights the close-knit nature of the department and the sense of solidarity that exists among those who serve in this challenging profession. COBA has pledged to assist Officer Sterling’s family in any way possible, ensuring that they are provided with the care and support they need during this incredibly difficult time.
While Officer Sterling’s time with the Department of Correction was tragically cut short, his legacy as a correction officer and a military serviceman will not be forgotten. He embodied the virtues of bravery, dedication, and service and will be remembered as a true hero. His commitment to both his country and his city serves as a shining example of what it means to be selfless and dedicated to a cause greater than oneself. Officer Sterling’s service, both in the correctional system and the military, reflected his desire to make the world a safer place for those around him. His passing is a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others, often at great personal cost.
As the department reflects on his contributions, they will continue to honor his memory, ensuring that his spirit lives on among those who serve and protect. Officer Sterling’s legacy will serve as an inspiration to current and future generations of correction officers, reminding them of the values of integrity, duty, and service that should guide their work. The community he served and the colleagues he worked with will carry forward the lessons he taught them, honoring his memory by continuing to serve with the same dedication and courage that he exemplified throughout his life.
In addition to his work at the Department of Correction, Officer Sterling’s military service further underscores his commitment to duty and his sense of patriotism. His passing while on military leave is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in both law enforcement and the military. The impact of his loss is not limited to the correctional community but extends to the wider network of service members and their families, who understand the toll that a life dedicated to public service can take. Officer Sterling’s death, while tragic, highlights the interconnectedness of the many different sectors of public service and the shared values that bind them together.
As the community comes to terms with the loss of such a dedicated and courageous individual, it is important to remember the legacy that Officer Sterling leaves behind. His life was one of service, sacrifice, and commitment, and his memory will continue to inspire all who had the honor of knowing him. Though his time with us was brief, his impact will be felt for many years to come. The Department of Correction, the COBA, and the community of Waupaca will forever be grateful for his service and the example he set for others to follow.
Rest in peace, Officer Horen Sterling. Your bravery, dedication, and unwavering service will never be forgotten. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of your colleagues, your family, and everyone whose life you touched. You will always be remembered as a hero.
