OILDALE - An anonymous baby found dead in an Oildale trash can, will soon be laid to rest. The burial of the baby girl will cost about $700, but thanks to the generosity of some Sheriff's deputies, the costs are covered.
The three deputies wanted to remain anonymous, but those with Garden of Innocence couldn't help but give them recognition.
June 21st is a day Detective Henry Bravo says he'll never forget.
"I was the assisting detective assisting the lead detective in this case," said Bravo, with the Sheriff's Department Homicide Unit.
The case was that of an unidentified baby girl, found in a trash can on Beardsley Avenue in Oildale.
"It shocks the conscious not only for law enforcement, but for the entire community."
That's why when Commander Justin Fleeman asked if he wanted to help pay for the baby's funeral, Detective Bravo said yes.
"There was no hesitation," said Detective Bravo. "I said no put me down for whatever you need."
The same was true for Sgt. James Newell.
"Not only does it make me feel good, it's part of my duty as a human being and a citizen from the community. We need to give back," said Sgt. Newell.
Together, these three deputies donated about $700, so the baby girl can be the first baby be buried in the new Garden of Innocence, a grave site for unclaimed children in Union Cemetery.
"It's just the right thing to do and that's really important," said Commander Fleeman.
Sheriff's deputies say the mother has not been found and no arrests have been made in the case.
"To this point we are actively looking into this case today," said Detective Bravo.
It's a case that not only touched these deputies professionally, but also personally.
"Not having family members to support and love it," said Sgt. Newell. "We are the voice of this baby."
A voice they're making sure is heard loud and clear.
"Everybody deserves a burial. The way it was just thrown in the dumpster, it was not right," said Detective Bravo.
The burial will take place September 7th at 10 a.m at Union Cemetery.
The Sheriff's Department said two other unclaimed babies will also be buried that day.