Deputy Keeper Joseph Peto

Deputy Keeper Joseph Peto

New Jersey Department of Corrections, New Jersey

End of Watch Thursday, December 2, 1948

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Joseph Peto

Deputy Keeper Joseph Peto succumbed to injuries suffered three years earlier when he was severely beaten by four inmates during an escape from the New Jersey State Prison Farm in Bordentown.

The prisoners beat Keeper Peto into unconsciousness and fractured his skull before they stole his car and fled from the prison farm. They later broke into a farmhouse and beat an elderly couple before stealing their vehicle. They were captured several days later in New Brunswick. They were all convicted of beating the elderly couple and theft of their car, as well as the beating of Keeper Peto and had over 20 years added to their original sentences.

Deputy Keeper Peto was unable to return to work and his condition deteriorated until he succumbed to his injuries on December 2nd, 1948. He was survived by his wife and seven step-children.

Bio

  • Age 50
  • Tour 15 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Assault
  • Incident Date Tuesday, November 6, 1945
  • Weapon Person
  • Offender Convicted

Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Keeper Peto,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of New Jersey. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

December 2, 2023

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