Corporal Arthur M. Diffendale

Corporal Arthur M. Diffendale

New York State Police, New York

End of Watch Thursday, June 14, 1951

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Arthur M. Diffendale

Corporal Diffendale was shot and killed after stopping a cattle truck with front and back license plates that did not match. As Corporal Diffendale approached the truck the suspect exited his vehicle and shot Corporal Diffendale in the chest. The suspect abandoned the truck, which was stolen along with the license plates and the cow in the truck, and escaped. He was later captured in Nassau County, New York.

The suspect was wanted for stealing cattle in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. A photograph of the suspect and the stolen truck was televised. This was the first time New York State Police used television in a man hunt.

The suspect was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 60 years to life in Attica State Prison on September 13, 1951. He escaped from prison on October 27, 1974, and was recaptured soon afterwards. He was paroled on Febuary 1, 1988. He was sent back to prison eight months later for having a weapon which was a violation of his parole. He died on October 20, 2001.

Bio

  • Age 33
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle
  • Offender Sentenced to 60 years to life

Most Recent Reflection

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Thankyou for your service Corporal
Diffendale.
When I was a young Trooper, I arrested the convict while he was on parole, he had a vehicle with two different plates and a loaded handgun. Chase ensured , he crashed near Binghamton

Trooper Steven Greene (retired)
NYSP

June 14, 2021

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