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Patrolman Ralph Franklin Garthwaite | Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Iowa State Patrol, Iowa

Patrolman

Ralph Franklin Garthwaite

Iowa State Patrol, Iowa

End of Watch: Saturday, July 2, 1955

Bio & Incident Details

Age: 34

Tour: 3 years

Badge # 218

Cause: Vehicular assault

Incident Date: 7/2/1955

Weapon: Automobile; Alcohol involved

Suspect: Acquitted

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Patrolman Ralph Garthwaite was killed when his patrol car was struck head-on by a drunk driver on Highway 30. The incident occurred on a bridge as Patrolman Garhwaite travelled northbound towards Dunlap, Iowa.

The suspect was charged with manslaughter. A jury found him innocent November 30, 1956.

Patrolman Garthwaite had served with the Iowa State Patrol for three years.

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My God ... what a travesty of justice. The drunken individual who took your life was acquitted. Trooper Garthwaite, I thank you for your service. Your sacrifice and your service will NEVER be forgotten. I know you will continue to rest in peace in Almighty God's presence.

Tom Jensen

Father of Detective Jared Scott Jensen
Colorado Springs Police Department, EOW 2/22/2006

Tom Jensen
October 27, 2009

 

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