Deputy Sheriff Hal P. Croft, Union County Sheriff's Office, Florida

Deputy Sheriff Hal P. Croft

Union County Sheriff's Office, Florida

End of Watch Tuesday, May 23, 1961

Hal P. Croft

Deputy Croft and a civilian assisting him were shot and killed while serving an arrest warrant on a man for firing a shotgun into a occupied dwelling. The suspect opened fire with a shotgun as they stepped onto his front porch. The suspect then took Deputy Croft's service revolver and shot himself in the chest. He recovered from his wounds and was charged with two counts of first degree murder.

The suspect was convicted of both murders and sentenced to death. In 1964 he was tried again and sentenced to two life terms. In 1976 his appeal for a new trial was denied.

Deputy Croft was survived by his wife and child. He had previously served with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Bio

Age 30
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Sentenced to life

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The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director Steve Casey
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 27, 2016