Police Officer James Brian Swart, Prince George's County Police Department, Maryland

Police Officer James Brian Swart

Prince George's County Police Department, Maryland

End of Watch Monday, June 26, 1978

James Brian Swart

Police Officer James Swart was shot and killed by a 15-year-old theft suspect in the booking area of the Hyattsville District Station.

Officer Swart was coming to the aid of Officer Albert Claggett who had just been killed with his own revolver. As Officer Swart entered the room, the suspect shot and killed him as well.

The suspect was found guilty of manslaughter in the death of Officer Claggett and not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of Officer Swart. The suspect was sentenced to 25 years. He was paroled in 1995.

In 1997, the suspect and his brother robbed a bank in Aberdeen, Maryland. As police officers approached to arrest the pair, the suspect committed suicide.

Officer Swart had served with the agency for five years. He is survived by his parents and brother.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 5 years
Badge 667

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Committed suicide

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Most Recent Reflection

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I was 10 years old when Officer Swart was murdered. He lived down the street from us in our neighborhood. The murders and the light sentence afterwards tore the community up. He was a good man and proud to serve his community.

It's been 40 years and I have not forgotten.

I will never forget.

JAC

September 28, 2018