Patrolman Brian Charles Melton
Des Moines Police Department
Iowa
End of Watch: Thursday, April 21, 1977

Biographical Info
Age: 25
Tour of Duty: 4 years
Badge Number: 318

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Thursday, April 21, 1977
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Acquitted of charges

Patrolman Melton was shot and killed after he and another officer arrested two men for public intoxication. While walking one of the men to the patrol wagon a scuffle ensued and an officer's handgun came free from its holster. The suspect picked up the gun and shot Patrolman Melton in the chest. The suspect was charged with 1st Degree Murder but was acquitted as the defense portrayed him as being the victim of police brutality.

Patrolman Melton had been with the agency for four years and is survived by his wife and two children.