Deputy Sheriff J. W. "Jim" Johnson, Thomas County Sheriff's Office, Georgia

Deputy Sheriff J. W. "Jim" Johnson

Thomas County Sheriff's Office, Georgia

End of Watch Tuesday, May 8, 1917

J. W. "Jim" Johnson

Deputy Sheriff Jim Johnson was shot and killed on Pavo Road as he and the sheriff searched for a liquor still about five miles from Thomasville.

When Deputy Johnson discovered the still he was shot and instantly killed as he ordered two men to throw up their hands. The sheriff returned fire wounding the gunman, who was apprehended along with his father in a nearby farmhouse a short time later.

On October 22nd, 1917, the subject was convicted of Deputy Johnson's murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was pardoned by Governor Clifford Walker on May 10, 1924.

Deputy Johnson was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age 37
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Pardoned in 1924

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

As a result of this loss of life, three children of his children, Orene, Martha and Mae were raised in the Masonic Home for Children in Macon, Ga. His wife, Vera, kept the baby James Jr to raise at home.

Shelia Kimble
Daughter-in-law of Martha

February 20, 2017