Police Officer James T. Sackett, Sr.

Police Officer James T. Sackett, Sr.

St. Paul Police Department, Minnesota

End of Watch Friday, May 22, 1970

Add to My Heroes

James T. Sackett, Sr.

Officer James Sackett was shot and killed by two suspects after responding to an emergency call at 859 Hague Avenue. When he arrived, he was ambushed from across the street by a suspect with a high-powered rifle.

The phone call was a false emergency call with the intention of killing a law enforcement officer.

Two suspects associated with the Black Panthers were originally questioned, but no charges were immediately filed due to lack of evidence.

The two suspects were finally arrested and charged with Officer Sackett's murder in January 2005, 35 years after the murder. Both suspects were sentenced to life in prison in 2006. In 2008 one of the suspects had his conviction overturned and was awarded a new trial. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and was released in 2010. As of 2022, the shooter is still incarcerated.

Officer Sackett was a United States Air Force veteran and had served with the St. Paul Police Department for 18 months. He was survived by his wife and four children.


The Black Panthers is a racist, radical group that professed the murders of law enforcement officers. Members and former members of the group were responsible for the murders of at least 15 law enforcement officers and the wounding of dozens more across the nation.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour 1 year, 6 months
  • Badge 450
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle
  • Offender Sentenced to life

ambush

Most Recent Reflection

View all 31 Reflections

Officer Sackett,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USAF. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

May 22, 2020

Want even more control of your Reflection? Create a free ODMP account now for these benefits:

  • Quick access to your heroes
  • Reflections published quicker
  • Save a Reflection signature
  • View, edit or delete any Reflection you've left in the past

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.