Patrolman John Ledbetter
Joplin Police Department
Missouri
End of Watch: Wednesday, June 10, 1903

Biographical Info
Age: Not available
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Assault
Date of Incident: Sunday, June 7, 1903
Weapon Used: Blunt object; Rock
Suspect Info: Never apprehended

Patrolman Ledbetter was killed by the leader of a disorderly group that he was attempting to disperse. When Patrolman Ledbetter attempted to arrest members of the group for refusing to leave the suspect struck Patrolman Ledbetter over the head with a rock. Patrolman Ledbetter died three days later from his injury. The suspect was never identified or apprehended, but years later a town resident on his deathbed confessed to the murder.