Police Officer Wayne A. Leon, Cleveland Police Department, Ohio

Police Officer Wayne A. Leon

Cleveland Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Sunday, June 25, 2000

Wayne A. Leon

Police Officer Wayne Leon was shot and killed while stopping a man suspected of being involved in a shooting on the previous day.

While questioning the man, Officer Leon was shot in the face. Officer Leon was transported to a local hospital where he passed away.

The suspect escaped after being involved in a chase with other officers, but was arrested later in the day. The man was on parole from a 10-year sentence for a 1995 attempted robbery conviction. He was found guilty of aggravated murder of a police officer in November 2000 and sentenced to death.

Officer Leon had served with the Cleveland Police Department for six years. He is survived by his wife and three young children.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 6 years
Badge 1338

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to death

Most Recent Reflection

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17 years ago, I remember the terrible news and watching with the rest of Cleveland...such a tragedy to take a vibrant life like Wayne Leon. And even then, I was so impressed and in awe of his widow, Grace. I always saw and read the news, heard stories and follow ups. But like so many, we go back to our busy lives and time goes by. I work in a retail setting and recently have been the cashier 'ringing out' Grace Leon. I recognized the name immediately but never mentioned it. Even without thinking of her history, I was again impressed. What an exceptional, lovely person. Her energy, enthusiasm, positive outlook, kindness is so welcome and engaging. I can't imagine the pain and heartache she's gone through but her smile and kindness wears like a tribute to life's goodness. Thank you, Wayne Leon, and thank you to all the law enforcement personnel , and thank you to wives and families of patrolmen in Cleveland that keep us safe every day. We appreciate all that you do. Thoughts and prayers to the Leon Family... We may get sidetracked with life events but we have never forgotten you or your sacrifice.

Cleveland Citizen

May 11, 2017