Town Marshal William Berry Freeman, Donalsonville Police Department, Georgia

Town Marshal William Berry Freeman

Donalsonville Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Tuesday, February 26, 1901

William Berry Freeman

Town Marshal William Freeman was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man for violating a town ordinance four months earlier.

As he attempted to make the arrest the man opened fire with a shotgun, striking Marshal Freeman in the head. He then shot and wounded another man who had accompanied Marshal Freeman.

Five years later the suspect walked into the Seminole County Jail and gave himself up. On June 2, 1906, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to 99 years. He was pardoned in 1909.

Marshal Freeman had served with the Donalsonville Police Department for approximately three months. He was survived by his son.

Bio

Age 41
Tour 3 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Pardoned in 1909

Most Recent Reflection

View all 2 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 112th anniversary year of your death.

Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. 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 Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

September 7, 2013