Guard John J. Eeles

Guard John J. Eeles | Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado
Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado
Guard John J. Eeles

Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado

End of Watch Thursday, October 3, 1929

John J. Eeles

Guard Eeles was killed during a prison riot.

Guard Eeles had served with the agency for over 25 years and was the prison's executioner.

Eight prison guards were killed when prisoners at the Colorado State Penitentiary rioted. A total of 2,000 rounds of ammunition were fired during the riot and large sections of the prison were destroyed by fire.

In addition to the eight guards, the rioting prisoners also murdered two inmates. Three of riot's ringleaders committed suicide.

Bio

  • Age 70
  • Tour 25 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Assault
  • Weapon Unknown weapon
  • Offender Committed suicide

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Most Recent Reflection

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I have the greatest respect and admiration for the profession of Corrections Officer, or Prison Guard as you were once called. This incident which took so many lives is a prime example of the dangers you face. Police Officers get to deal with the GOOD in society from time to time whereas you only deal with the BAD, even when some of the inmates are basically decent people, they certainly wouldn't be in your custody if they were angels.

I can only hope that all those involved faced true justice when all was said and done, if not in this life, then in the next.

I also hope you have found nothing but peace in your eternal rest. God Bless you and thank you for your service, Brother.

Ptl. Jim Leahy, Jr.
Harvard University Police Dept.

October 3, 2015

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