Sheriff Earl Sermon Dyess, Sr.

Sheriff Earl Sermon Dyess, Sr. | Hendry County Sheriff's Department, Florida
Hendry County Sheriff's Department, Florida
Sheriff Earl Sermon Dyess, Sr.

Hendry County Sheriff's Department, Florida

End of Watch Sunday, August 17, 1980

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Earl Sermon Dyess, Sr.

Sheriff Earl Dyess was stabbed to death while investigating the sound of gunfire in an ally behind his home. As he confronted two teenagers, he demanded one of them to give him his .22 caliber pistol. As a struggle began for possession of the weapon the 18-year-old's 15-year-old stepbrother stabbed him in the heart. Both boys were apprehended the next day.

The 15-year-old, who was tried as an adult, was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 137 years. He will be eligible for parole in 2021. His stepbrother, charged with manslaughter, had his case dismissed in 1981.

Sheriff Dyess was survived by his wife and two sons.

Bio

  • Age 59
  • Tour 20 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Stabbed
  • Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
  • Offender Sentenced to 137 years

investigation

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Rest in peace always knowing that your memory, service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

August 17, 2020

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