Deputy Sheriff Robert R. Lawson, Itasca County Sheriff's Department, Minnesota

Deputy Sheriff Robert R. Lawson

Itasca County Sheriff's Department, Minnesota

End of Watch Thursday, October 29, 1981

Robert R. Lawson

Deputy Lawson was shot and killed while attempting to serve a warrant on a suspect. Deputy Lawson was off duty but when he heard the suspect was at home he reported onto duty and went to arrest the man. The suspect had been arrested by Deputy Lawson on several previous occasions. After shooting Deputy Lawson the man took his two young children hostage for 18 hours before he was taken into custody.

The 27-year-old man suspect convicted of murder and sentenced to life. He was denied parole in January, 2016, but will be eligible for parole again in five years.

Deputy Lawson had been with the agency for 11 years and was survived by his wife and seven children.

Bio

Age 51
Tour 11 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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I remember that day like it was yesterday. I also worked for Itasca County only in the welfare department. Beefy was a great man and loved by everyone. We all prayed for a better outcome, but it was not to be. His daughter was also our neighbor. Every time Mr. Fox's parole comes up I pray that it is not granted.

David ness

October 29, 2017