Guard Clarence Cox

Guard Clarence Cox

Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia

End of Watch Monday, November 8, 1943

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Clarence Cox

Guard Clarence Cox was shot and killed during an escape attempt from the state prison road camp near Douglas, Georgia.

A prison trustee used his privilege to access a prison office, where he obtained a gun. He held several employees at gunpoint, which allowed 10 additional inmates to raid the camp arsenal and steal seven shotguns and all of the ammunition.

As the group attempted to flee they ordered Guard Cox to drop his gun. He was then shot in the abdomen by a blast from a shotgun as he opened fire on the escapees. He was transported to a local hospital where he died the following day.

The trustee, 22, who caused the escape was also the ring leader. This was his ninth escape. All 11 were trustees. He was captured the next day along with three others. All were eventually captured. Six were charged with murder. An investigation revealed prison officials were extremely negligent as to how they appointed trusties and the dangerous access they were given to areas within the prison and camps.

Bio

  • Age 57
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Sunday, November 7, 1943
  • Weapon Shotgun; 12 gauge
  • Offender Charged with murder

escape attempt

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Thank you for your service and rest in peace always knowing that your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

November 8, 2020

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