Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch Thursday, July 3, 1980
Add to My HeroesDesmond Sherry
Officer Desmond Sherry was shot and killed as he was driving home and stopped to prevent a robbery while off duty. He was shot in the face three times as he got out of his car. Twelve members of a gang, all in their late teens and early 20s were arrested. Seven were released. The other five were charged with Officer Sherry's murder. Three were acquitted. The other two, both 17, were convicted, one for murder and the other for voluntary manslaughter.
The suspect convicted of murder was sentenced to 27 years to life in prison. He has his first parole hearing on July 19, 2021. The other suspect was sentenced to 7 to 25 years.
Officer Sherry was survived by his wife and two children.
Bio
- Age 29
- Tour Not available
- Badge 410
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 37 Reflections“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called children of God” the gospel of Matthew chapter 5 verse 9.
Today is a somber day. 40 years have passed. Everyday I wish that all the peacemakers were still here, still here to be a father, mother, uncle, aunt, grandpa, great grandpa, husband, wife, cousin, brother, sister and friend to those that were left behind. Sometimes all that is left is to hope and to know that their sacrifice was not in vain.
The family who are left behind are called survivors, but I think them heroes in and of themselves. They don’t simply survive, they live. They prosper without anger or resentment living in their heart. They glorify the Lord by living the best life that they can in spite of the pain that feels like only yesterday. They devote themselves to their family and friends. They help others in need and those reeling from the same loss that they themselves have suffered. They do all of this with love.
You are in my heart and prayers today, as you are always. God bless.
Deirdre Ruane
Niece
July 3, 2020
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