Jail Master David S. Robinson, Sr.

Jail Master David S. Robinson, Sr.

Middlesex County Sheriff's Office, Massachusetts

End of Watch Sunday, May 14, 1961

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David S. Robinson, Sr.

Jail Master David Robinson was shot and killed during an escape attempt by two inmates from the old county jail on Third Street, adjacent to the courthouse in East Cambridge.

The inmate who shot Jail Master Robinson was awaiting trial for the murder of Patrolman Lawrence W. Gorman of the Cambridge Police Department on September 3rd, 1960. The man committed suicide three days after murdering Jail Master Robinson when police stormed a Boston apartment where he was hiding.

The second inmate, who was awaiting trial for the murder of a clerk in a Saugus clothing store, was captured four days later while robbing a store in New Hampshire. He was convicted of two counts of murder and sentenced to life in prison. In December 1985 he escaped from prison and he remained at large until March 22nd, 2005, when he was arrested in Chicago, Illinois. He was denied parole on January 12th, 2010.

Jail Master Robinson had served with the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office for 27 years. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, mother, and three brothers.

Bio

  • Age 53
  • Tour 27 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Committed suicide

escape attempt

Most Recent Reflection

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Jail Master Robinson, it has been 62 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 that you and too many others have made for us. Thank you for your service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

May 14, 2023

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