Chief of Police James Melvin

Chief of Police James Melvin | Paintsville Police Department, Kentucky
Paintsville Police Department, Kentucky
Chief of Police James Melvin

Paintsville Police Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Friday, August 26, 1921

Add to My Heroes

James Melvin

Chief of Police James Melvin and Federal Prohibition Agent J. H. Reynolds were shot and killed while searching for an illegal still in Johnson County, Kentucky.

A group of five suspects opened fire on the officers, killing Chief Melvin and Agent Reynolds, and wounding a county deputy. Four suspects were apprehended and charged with murder. Two were convicted of murder and sentenced to life. One was pardoned by Governor Fields on December 23, 1926, and the other was eventually released. The fifth suspect was apprehended in St. Petersburg, Florida, January 17, 1922. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life,

Bio

  • Age Not available
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Convicted of murder
LODD Mapping FAQs

Related LODD Deaths

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 92nd anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

April 14, 2013

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.

Recent LODD Deaths