Special Officer William W. Wiles, Kern County District Attorney's Office, California

Special Officer William W. Wiles

Kern County District Attorney's Office, California

End of Watch Friday, December 19, 1924

William W. Wiles

Special Officer Wiles was shot and killed while investigating an illegal still. As Officer Wiles attempted to arrest the suspect at the still the man ran back to his car and grabbed a handgun. The suspect then opened fire on Officer Wiles, killing him. The man claimed he shot in self defense and was convicted of manslaughter after two trials.

Officer Wiles was assigned the Prohibition Squad at the time of his death. He had been with the agency for one year and had previously served as a constable for Wasco for eight years. He was survived by his wife and three children.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour 9 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Convicted of manslaughter

Most Recent Reflection

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History repeats in many ways. This year December 19th again falls on a Friday. Today on the anniversary of your death you are remembered. Your service and ultimate sacrifice are not forgotten. If you live in Kern Co and don't know his story, click on the link to The Bakersfield Californian story published in 2015.

Howard Eddy
Kern Co. D.A. Inv. RET

December 19, 2017