Deputy Sheriff William Gene Truesdale

I worked as a Court Reporter in that courtroom with Deputy Truesdale on that fateful day. Defendant was there as a witness in another case and would have received a reduction in his sentence in another jurisdiction for his cooperation. Makes no sense why he killed Deputy Truesdale. Defendants stature was large. He seemed calm. However, I was warned by judge to keep close to the judges bench. Minutes after the hearing Deputy Truesdale was gone. I was shocked. I worked with him on many occasions. I always liked him.

Fast forward to the defendants sentencing. I was appointed to the sentencing phase. I was very young. When the judge said, you are hereby sentenced to death, the defendant looked at me. He seemed remorseful. However, it didn't make it right. The impact of that day, the sentencing, the murder, his family I will never forget. I have thought about Deputy Truesdale over the years and his family. I remember him talking about his young boy and his love for his wife and family.

There was a case on Nancy Grace show where she was talking about a deputy's murder. Her reporting was a little off on the statics. However, I told her about Deupty Truesdale and she mentioned his name on air. I am so proud to hear of his young son joining the department. Mrs. Truesdale and children wherever you are I pray you had a good life. I will never forget Deputy Truesdale and his family. God bless each one of you.

Sherry Frazier
Court Reporter

February 21, 2020