Deputy Sheriff Thomas William Procter
Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Department
Louisiana
End of Watch: Saturday, May 20, 1978

Biographical Info
Age: Not available
Tour of Duty: 2 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Saturday, May 6, 1978
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Released from prison

Deputy Procter died of a gunshot wound he revived after responding to a shoplifting call at a grocery store. When Deputy Procter arrived the store security officers had the shoplifting suspect in custody. As Deputy Procter was gathering information, the shoplifters boyfriend appeared and began a disturbance.

When the officer approached the boyfriend, he was attacked and the suspect was able to gain control of Deputy Procter's sidearm. The suspect then fired one shot, striking Deputy Procter. Deputy Procter was removed to the hospital where he died two weeks later of his wound.

The suspect was convicted and sentenced to prison. He was later released and placed on probation.

Deputy Procter had served with the LaFourche Parish Sheriff's Department for 2 years and was survived by his two daughters.