Police Officer Melvin L. "Mel" Henze, Cincinnati Police Department, Ohio

Police Officer Melvin L. "Mel" Henze

Cincinnati Police Department, Ohio

End of Watch Saturday, May 5, 1979

Melvin L. "Mel" Henze

Officer Melvin Henze was shot and killed while pursuing a suspect wanted for felonious assault. The suspect fled on foot as Officer Henze pursued in his police car. As Officer Henze passed a building alley at 1025 Naeher Street, the suspect came out and shot him several times through his open car window around 1:30 p.m.

The suspect was apprehended by responding officers. He was sentenced to 22 years to life in prison and was denied parole in November 2006. He died in prison on August 13, 2011.

Officer Henze, a Vietnam War veteran, had served with the agency for 8 years. He was survived by his 5-year-old daughter and his parents.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 8 years, 2 months
Badge P279
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Died in prison

Most Recent Reflection

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NEVER FORGET! On behalf of the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police, we honor the dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice of Police Officer Melvin L. "Mel" Henze of the Cincinnati Police Department, Ohio and the additional 55 American Peace Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on this date in history.

Chief Joe Morbitzer
Westerville, Ohio Division of Police

May 6, 2018