Special Patrolman Thomas Sparks, New York Metropolitan Police Force, New York

Special Patrolman Thomas Sparks

New York Metropolitan Police Force, New York

End of Watch Thursday, July 9, 1857

Thomas Sparks

Patrolman Sparks succumbed to injuries received when he was struck by an object after arresting a man for assault.

Patrolman Sparks had been appointed a Special Patrolman only one night before due to rioting going on in the city. Two rival gangs, "The Bowery Boys" and "The Dead Rabbits" had faced off against each other.

Patrolman Sparks heard a cry for help, he responded and made an arrest. As Patrolman Sparks was walking the arrested subject toward White Street, he was struck with an object by a member of the "Dead Rabbits" gang. He was taken home where his condition deteriorated he died five days after being assaulted.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour 1 day
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Incident Date Saturday, July 4, 1857
Weapon Blunt object
Offender Not available

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Most Recent Reflection

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Gang warfare is trivial, childish b.s. and always has been. You were taken from family, friends and colleagues 159 years ago today. You were a pioneer in American Law Enforcement.

God Bless you Brother and may your eternal rest be ever peaceful.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

July 9, 2016