Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch Monday, April 7, 1969
Add to My HeroesJohn Apanites, Jr.
Detective John Apanites was shot and killed as he and another officer questioned two shoplifting suspects, a 27-year-old man and his 20-year-old female companion, at a local clothing store. As the officers waited for a patrol car to arrive a struggle ensued between the officers and the male suspect. The suspect and the officers exchanged gunshots and all four were wounded. The suspect fled to a city bus where he was arrested by a patrolman.
Detective Apanites died at the scene and his partner was seriously wounded.
The suspect was sentenced to death for Detective Apanites' murder. His sentence was later commuted to life. He was denied parole in February, 2016. He will be eligible for parole again on December 1, 2025.
Detective Apanites was a US Marine Corps veteran. He had served with the Cleveland Police Department for 18 months and had previously served with the FBI for six months. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter, and father.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 2 years
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 32 ReflectionsRest in peace Detective Apanites.
Rabbi Lewis S. Davis
April 19, 2022
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