Patrolman Paul Joseph Durkin

Patrolman Paul Joseph Durkin

Youngstown Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Tuesday, September 22, 1987

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Paul Joseph Durkin

Patrolman Paul Durkin was shot and killed after stopping a man on suspicion of petty theft in the 2300 block of Goleta Avenue at 4:10 am.

He interrupted a subject stealing items from a van parked on the roadway. Before he had an opportunity to exit his vehicle the man shot him through the window of his patrol car with a .22 caliber handgun. The subject was apprehended later the same day.

The man was convicted of Patrolman Durkin's murder and sentenced to 15 years to life. He was denied parole three times and will be eligible again in 2027.

Patrolman Durkin had served with the Youngstown Police Department for 12 years. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Bio

  • Age 34
  • Tour 12 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
  • Offender Sentenced to 15 years to life

larceny

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Ohio Attorneys General Bureau of Criminal Identification & Investigation, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Patrolman Paul Joseph Durkin of the Youngstown Police Department, Ohio and the additional 80 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Superintendent Joe Morbitzer
Ohio Attorney General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation

September 22, 2022

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