Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, Florida
End of Watch: Saturday, April 18, 1981
Age: 26
Tour of Duty: Not available
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Vehicular assault
Date of Incident: April 18, 1981
Weapon Used: Automobile; Alcohol involved
Suspect Info: Sentenced to 6 months
Deputy Sheriff Richard Landes was struck and killed by a passing vehicle while he was assisting others in removing a vehicle from a canal at the intersection of Summit Boulevard and Military Trail. He and the tow truck driver were struck as they stood next to the car after it was pulled from the canal. The 34-year-old driver of the vehicle that struck him was charged with reckless driving, drunk driving, and manslaughter.
In 1984 the driver was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to six months in jail. He was told he could get his license back when he completed an alcohol abuse treatment program.
Deputy Landes had previously served with the Belle Glade Police Department.