Chief of Police R. E. Sparks, Oxford Police Department, Alabama

Chief of Police R. E. Sparks

Oxford Police Department, Alabama

End of Watch Friday, May 7, 1948

R. E. Sparks

Chief of Police Sparks was shot and killed and an officer assisting him was critically wounded while attempting to arrest a man for being drunk and disruptive in public. As they struggled with the man he grabbed the officer's revolver and shot Chief Sparks five times and his officer once in his abdomen. A nearby store owner, who had called in the complaint, held the suspect at gunpoint until other officers arrived.

The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death. On June 16, 1950, four hours before his scheduled execution, his sentence was commuted to life.

He had served with the agency for 20 years.

Bio

Age 63
Tour 20 years
Badge 600

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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Another year has passed and you are still admired and respectfully remembered in the hearts and minds of so many. My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones and friends on this anniversary of your EOW. You will never be forgotten.

James Sheppard
Father of Sgt. Jason L. Sheppard EOW 12/7/06

May 7, 2010