Deputy Sheriff Arthur Clay Briscoe

Deputy Sheriff Arthur Clay Briscoe

Powell County Sheriff's Department, Kentucky

End of Watch Thursday, January 30, 1992

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Arthur Clay Briscoe

Deputy Sheriff Arthur Briscoe and Sheriff Steve Bennett were shot and killed while they were attempting to arrest a suspect with outstanding warrants in an area known as Little Hardwick Creek.

In Toledo, Ohio, the suspect was wanted for assault on a police officer, jumping bail, receiving stolen property, and flagrant nonsupport.

Deputy Sheriff Briscoe had visited the cabin a couple of weeks earlier looking for the suspect, but he was in Ohio at the time. The suspect's wife called and told him the authorities were looking for him, and he proceeded to Michigan, where he purchased an SKS assault rifle and ammunition.

On the day of the incident, Deputy Briscoe went to the cabin after learning the suspect was back in town and confronted him. The suspect met him at the front door with his assault rifle and informed Deputy Briscoe he would not be arrested.

Deputy Briscoe and Sheriff Bennett returned, and as they faced the cabin with their guns drawn, the suspect ambushed them from behind, killing them both.

The suspect, who was a twice-convicted felon, was convicted of both murders and sentenced to death.

Deputy Briscoe and Sheriff Bennett were brothers-in-law. Deputy Briscoe was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran who had served with the Powell County Sheriff's Department for six weeks and had previously served with the Powell County Sheriff's Office. He was survived by his 14-year-old son.

Bio

  • Age 39
  • Tour 8 months
  • Badge 121
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Rifle; AK-47
  • Offender Sentenced to Death

ambush, arrest attempt, convicted felon, warrant service

Most Recent Reflection

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I met Deputy Briscoe’s son today, who became a police officer like his father and is now retired and enjoying his second career as a pilot. He went out of his way to stop in the middle of his busy day and introduce himself to me. He told me about his father and uncle and I came here to pay my respects for two men who made the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you Dennis Briscoe for taking the time to speak to me.

Police Officer John Tumino
Port Authority Police NY/NJ NLIA

June 13, 2025

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