Correctional Officer Arthur Sprouse, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, Ohio

Correctional Officer Arthur Sprouse

Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, July 24, 1973

Arthur Sprouse

Officer Sprouse was shot and killed by an inmate who was able to obtain a firearm. The inmate then held three guards hostage for more than an hour. When guards rushed the suspect and subdued him, Officer Gary Underwood was accidentally shot and killed by one of the guards.

A guard who had recently been fired was charged with smuggling the gun to the inmate. The inmate, who was serving a life sentence for murder, received another life sentence August 15, 1973, when convicted of murdering Officer Sprouse.

Office Sprouse had served with the agency for 11 months. He was survived by his wife and five children.

Bio

Age 40
Tour 11 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .25 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Correctional Officer Arthur Sprouse of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, Ohio and the additional 64 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Chief Joe Morbitzer
Westerville, Ohio Division of Police

July 24, 2018