Police Officer Harold Louis Vitale

Police Officer Harold Louis Vitale

Saugus Police Department, Massachusetts

End of Watch Tuesday, June 18, 1985

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Harold Louis Vitale

Officer Vitale was killed after being intentionally dragged by a vehicle.

He had pulled the vehicle over for a traffic violation but had learned that the driver was wanted for another crime. When he attempted to arrest the man, the suspect rolled Officer Vitale's arm up in the window and drove away, dragging Officer Vitale at speeds up to 40 mph and knocking him into street signs. Several passengers in the vehicle attempted to make the man stop but were unsuccessful.

The suspect was apprehended but acquitted of murder and instead convicted of vehicular manslaughter. The judge sentenced the suspect to a maximum of 18 to 20 years, but the suspect was released on parole after only ten years.

Officer Vitale had served with the Saugus Police Department for 14 years. He was survived by his wife, three children, five brothers, and two sisters.

Bio

  • Age 42
  • Tour 14 years
  • Badge 17

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Served ten years

arrest attempt, traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Vitale, it has been 39 years since you were taken from us. New England law enforcement has continued to thrive, learn and become safer due to the traditions and sacrifices you, your family, and many others have made for us. Thank you for your 14 years of law enforcement service.

Chief (Ret) Steven Marshall
Georges Mills, NH

June 19, 2024

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