David Huerta, chief of the Fresno State Police Department, died Aug. 16 at the age of 68 after a 13 month hospitalization at UCSF Medical Center, according to a university news release.

Huerta served as chief of Fresno State’s Police Department since 2004. Prior to his time at Fresno State, he worked for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Department where he retired at the rank of lieutenant.­

“Chief David Huerta was an exemplary leader of our campus police department,” said Fresno State President Dr. Joseph I. Castro in the release. “He had unwavering integrity, even under the most challenging circumstances. Most importantly, he was devoted to his wife, Cynthia, and his children. David will be deeply missed by all of us at the University.”

Castro has ordered the University’s flags to be posted at half staff on the date of Huerta’s service in memory of the chief’s service to Fresno State.

Huerta was a lifelong resident of Fresno County. He is a Fresno State alumnus, having earned his master’s degree in criminology in 1992. He later taught courses at Fresno State and National University.

“Chief Huerta was a kind and noble leader whose integrity, strong values and law-enforcement experience transformed the Fresno State Police Department during his 15-year tenure,” said Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer Debbie Adishian-Astone in the release. “He made many important contributions to ensure the safety of our campus community, for which we will be forever grateful. David was a true gentleman who always cared about others before himself, and his legacy of law-enforcement leadership will never be forgotten. Our campus community has lost a dear friend and colleague.”

Chief Huerta is survived by his wife, Cynthia Huerta, and four children ”” Breanne and son-in-law Steve, Austin and daughter-in-law Liz, Brandt, Carragan ”” and three grandchildren. He is also survived by his father, Pete Huerta, brother Michael, and sister Teresa.

Services will be held in the coming weeks.