Lieutenant Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Rouse

Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Rouse

Lieutenant Cliff Rouse was shot after responding to an armed robbery at a convenience store on Sylvester Road after 10:00 pm.

Shortly after his initial response to the call, he radioed that he had been shot at a nearby trailer park and needed an ambulance. He had been struck once in the leg and once in the abdomen, just below his vest. He was transported to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.

The 18-year-old suspect was apprehended by a member of the Dougherty County Sheriff's Office during a search of the trailer park. He was charged with felony murder and additional charges in connection with the armed robbery.

On February 25, 2015, the suspect pled guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Lieutenant Rouse had served with the Dougherty County Police Department for 18 years. He is survived by his wife and two children.