Chief of Police James C. Smith

Chief of Police James C. Smith | Barbourville Police Department, Kentucky
Barbourville Police Department, Kentucky
Chief of Police James C. Smith

Barbourville Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Friday, July 20, 1962

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James C. Smith

Chief James Smith was shot and killed after responding to a domestic disturbance.

As he and another officer spoke with the suspect, the suspect grabbed a shotgun and fired once striking the chief in the abdomen. Both officers returned fire critically wounding the suspect.

The 55 year-old suspect was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and sentenced to 21 years in prison. In 1936 he had served a year in prison for biting off the fingers of a Barbourville police officer who had arrested him for public drunkenness.

Chief Smith is survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

  • Age 43
  • Tour 15 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
  • Offender Sentenced to 21 years
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Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice is one that will never, ever be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 20, 2020

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