Chief of Police Clarence Ritsch

Chief of Police Clarence Ritsch | Carmi Police Department, Illinois
Carmi Police Department, Illinois
Chief of Police Clarence Ritsch

Carmi Police Department, Illinois

End of Watch Saturday, May 26, 1934

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Clarence Ritsch

Chief Clarence Ritsch was shot and killed while escorting a prisoner to jail that he had arrested for being intoxicated.

As they walked to the jail, the man reached inside of his coat pocket and fired a handgun. Although mortally wounded, Chief Ritsch was able to return fire. The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended and sentenced to 99 years in prison. He was paroled December 6, 1957.

Chief Ritsch had served with the Carmi Police Department for 25 years. He was survived by his wife and eight children.

Bio

  • Age 50
  • Tour 25 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Paroled in 1957
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My great great grandfather. His son Wilburn Clarence is my great grandfather. You are a brave man, your blood flows through me. My path is in Criminal Justice and now I know where I get it from! Wish I would have known you personally. Your granddaughter that was 3 months old at the time of your passing is my grandma and your great-granddaughter you would never meet cause of this horrible prisoner, is my mother. I am proud to be your blood sir, and I hope in my career I make you proud!

Monica Mobley
Great Great Granddaughter

April 11, 2020

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