He was shot in the face, and an eye was badly damaged. Business owners joined other members of the public for a barbecue in East Los Angeles.
The deputy is still recovering and was not able to attend the event. Organizers say this is their Valentine's Day gift, to help him as he faces a tough financial burden.
"He's the full support, his mom is recently widowed and he's got ten brothers and sisters," said business owner Yolanda Duarte.
Deputy "Mo" will need extensive long term care to recover, according to the sheriff's department. Organizers of the fundraiser said they will be there for him over the long haul.
