Trooper Jeffrey Dale Young

Trooper Jeffrey Dale Young

Florida Highway Patrol, Florida

End of Watch Tuesday, August 18, 1987

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Jeffrey Dale Young

Trooper Jeffrey Young was shot and killed with his own weapon during a traffic stop in Manatee, Florida.

Trooper Young was a member of the narcotics squad and was attempting to arrest a drug courier during a traffic stop. Two suspects were en route to Detroit, Michigan, on I-75 when they were stopped by Trooper Young. Consent was given to search the vehicle, during which Trooper Young discovered a substantial amount of cocaine. The amount was later determined to be 340 grams of crack cocaine. A violent struggle between the Trooper and suspects ensued, and one of the suspects gained control of Trooper Young's revolver and shot him in the face at point-blank range.

The 42-year-old shooter and his 40-year-old accomplice were apprehended three hours later in a nearby swamp. The shooter was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. As of November 28, 2020, now 75, he remains on death row.

Trooper Young served with the Florida Highway Patrol for three years and was assigned to Troop F. He was well known for his ability to spot a drug trafficker. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Bio

  • Age 28
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to death

traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

View all 51 Reflections

I never met Trooper Young, but my life was greatly impacted by his actions on the 2nd day as a trooper. As Trooper Young approached the toll booth at the Skyway Bridge, a toll person said they thinks there is a man going to try to jump off the bridge. Trooper Young went to the top to find a man standing on the ledge. After talking to the man and convincing him that his children needed him at home, Trooper Young helped my Dad come off that ledge and brought him home to us.

Thank you Trooper Young for your service. I am a life that was changed by your brave actions. Rest in peace.

Matthew LaRaviere
Friend

October 30, 2022

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