Special Deputy Sheriff Joseph Townsend, McIntosh County Sheriff's Office, Georgia

Special Deputy Sheriff Joseph Townsend

McIntosh County Sheriff's Office, Georgia

End of Watch Friday, August 25, 1899

Joseph Townsend

Special Deputy Sheriff Joseph Townsend was shot and killed and another deputy was seriously wounded by one of two brothers when they attempted to arrest them at their home for complicity in a riot.

A week earlier a riot resulted in Darien when the suspect's father, a prominent politician, was arrested for assaulting a woman. In the following days the situation grew worse as more than 40 rioters were arrested. After Deputy Townsend was killed Governor Allen D. Candler sent in the Georgia State Militia. Law and order was restored and both suspects were apprehended and charged with murder.

The shooter was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. His brother was tried and acquitted.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
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Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Sentenced to life

Most Recent Reflection

View all 6 Reflections

Deputy Sheriff Townsend,
On today, the 116th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of McIntosh County.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 25, 2015