Patrolman Thomas J. Riley

Patrolman Thomas J. Riley | Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts Patrolman Thomas J. Riley | Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts
Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts
Patrolman Thomas J. Riley | Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts
Patrolman Thomas J. Riley | Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts
Patrolman Thomas J. Riley

Cambridge Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Saturday, November 20, 1920

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Thomas J. Riley

Patrolman Riley was shot and killed while trying to disperse a group of drunk men. As he turned to leave one of the men produced a revolver and shot Patrolman Riley in the head.
Patrolman Riley had been with the agency for eight years.

A 25-year-old suspect was arrested, convicted of murder, and sentenced to death. Governor Channing H. Cox commuted his sentence to life. He was pardoned on December 24, 1953.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour 8 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender Pardoned in 1953
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Patrolman Riley, it has been 103 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

November 20, 2023

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