Deputy Sheriff Earl Anson Torrence, Essex County Sheriff's Department, New York

Deputy Sheriff Earl Anson Torrence

Essex County Sheriff's Department, New York

End of Watch Monday, November 15, 1948

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Earl Anson Torrence

Deputy Sheriff Earl Torrence was beaten and strangled to death with a rope by two prisoners in the Essex County Jail during an escape attempt.

The prisoners had lured Deputy Torrence, the lone jailer on duty, into the cell after the lights had been turned off for the night and then beat him and garroted him. Deputy Torrence's body was found with the rope tied around his neck by the Sheriff when Deputy Torrence's wife was unable to contact him.

The two prisoners escaped from the jail. One suspect was captured the next day in Keene Valley near Elizabethtown. The other suspect was taken into custody a few days later. Both suspects, ages 21 and 32, were convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 50 years to life.

Deputy Torrence was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 64
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Weapon Person
Offender Sentenced to 50 years to life

correctional Facility, escape

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Deputy Sheriff Torrence,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Essex County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United Sates Border Patrol

November 15, 2023