Deputy Sheriff Joe Trapolino

Deputy Sheriff Joe Trapolino

Harris County Sheriff's Office, Texas

End of Watch Saturday, May 23, 1936

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Joe Trapolino

Deputy Trapolino was shot and killed while he and another deputy attempted to serve a lunacy warrant. When the deputies arrived at the home they encountered the subject with a shotgun. Deputy Trapolino attempted to persuade the man to put the gun down by telling him they were only going to take him to a doctor. The suspect continued to threaten them as the deputies walked down the driveway. As the deputies drew their weapons and took cover the man shot Deputy Trapolino in the back. The suspect was arrested a short time later.

The suspect, 57, was committed at the Austin State Mental Hospital where he died on October 24, 1937.

Deputy Trapolino had been with the agency for 18 years. He was a World War I veteran.

Bio

  • Age 41
  • Tour 18 years
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Died in mental hospital

Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Sheriff Trapolino,
On today, the 91st anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army in Europe fighting the Germans during WW I as a member of the 36th "Texas" Infantry Division. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

May 23, 2017

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