Deputy Sheriff James E. Thomas, Lee County Sheriff's Office, North Carolina

Deputy Sheriff James E. Thomas

Lee County Sheriff's Office, North Carolina

End of Watch Saturday, April 11, 1936

James E. Thomas

Deputy Thomas was shot and killed as he and several other deputies raided a still in a heavily wooded area of the county. One of three men opened fire on the group, killing Deputy Thomas and wounding a second deputy. The shooter was wounded in the return fire and taken into custody. The other two were able to escape but were apprehended later in the day.

The suspect was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 18 to 28 years in prison.

Deputy Thomas was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age 31
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to 18 to 28 years

Most Recent Reflection

View all 4 Reflections

Your heroism and service is honored today, the seventy third anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service to my home state and the birthplace of my son. 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

PhyllisLoya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

April 12, 2009