Constable P. Joseph Deeghan

Constable P. Joseph Deeghan

Clinton County Sheriff's Office, Pennsylvania

End of Watch Saturday, March 5, 1904

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P. Joseph Deeghan

Constable Joseph Deeghan was shot and killed as he and two other officers attempted to arrest a suspect for making threats against citizens.

When the constables approached the suspect's home, he greeted them cordially and requested that they come in to read the arrest warrant to him. The light in the room was intentionally dim, and, as the constable struggled to read the warrant by the fire light, the suspect's wife feigned hysteria and left the room. She secreted two revolvers on her person and passed one to her husband when she returned. The couple then opened fire on the constables, striking Constable Deeghan three times and wounding the other two constables.

The suspects fled the home after the shooting. The female suspect was captured only days after the incident, but the male suspect managed to escape the posse sent to capture him.

Constable Deeghan had served with the Clinton County Sheriff's Office for two years. He was survived by his mother, sister, and six brothers.

Bio

  • Age 27
  • Tour 2 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Wednesday, March 2, 1904
  • Weapon Handgun; Revolver
  • Offender One Apprehended; One Escaped

arrest attempt

Most Recent Reflection

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Constable Deeghan,
On today, the 120th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Clinton County.

BPA Mike Casey(Retired)
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

March 5, 2024

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