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 on Euclid Avenue.
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 United States Marine Corps veteran who 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, who had also served with the Cleveland Police Department.
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 34 ReflectionsNEVER FORGET! Please help me honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Detective John Apanites, Jr. of the Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio and the additional 68 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.
Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation
April 7, 2024
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