Ward County Sheriff's Department, North Dakota
End of Watch Thursday, January 15, 1920
Add to My HeroesEarnest W. Thompson
Deputy Earnest Thompson was shot and killed by a prisoner who was serving a 90 day sentence for bootlegging in the Ward County Jail .
A posse captured the 34-year-old suspect the next day near Minot. Three weeks later the suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life. The suspect's 22-year-old brother, who slipped him the gun, was also convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life. In 1924 his sentence was reduced to 25 years.
Deputy Thompson was buried in Lakeview Cemetery in Grey Eagle, Minnesota. He was survived by two sisters and a nephew.
Bio
- Age 56
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 4 ReflectionsRest In Peace Brother LEO. Thank you Hero and your family for your courage, sacrifice and service. Always remembered.
Officer Mike Robinson (Ret.)
Upland Police Dept. CA
January 15, 2020
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