Patrolman James C. Ratliff

Patrolman James C. Ratliff

Lawrenceburg Police Department, Indiana

End of Watch Tuesday, February 7, 1961

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James C. Ratliff

Patrolman James Ratliff was shot and killed while at the scene of a domestic disturbance at the Wilson Oil Company.

As Patrolman Ratliff approached an occupied vehicle at the business, a male subject opened fire with a handgun, striking him. Patrolman Ratliff was pronounced dead on arrival at Dearborn County Hospital.

The suspect was charged and convicted of murder. He received a life sentence but committed suicide in 1979.

Patrolman Ratliff was a United States Marine Corps veteran who had served with the Lawrenceburg Police Department for one year. He was survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter.

Bio

  • Age 52
  • Tour 20 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Convicted of murder and committed suicid

domestic

Most Recent Reflection

View all 8 Reflections

Patrolman Ratliff,
On today, the 62nd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the USMC in Nicaragua. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Semper Fi Devil Dog!
A fellow LEO;former Marine

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

February 7, 2023

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