Police Officer Roy L. Leon, Jr., Cotton Plant Police Department, Arkansas

Police Officer Roy L. Leon, Jr.

Cotton Plant Police Department, Arkansas

End of Watch Friday, July 13, 1984

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Roy L. Leon, Jr.

Officer Roy Leon and Chief of Police Leonard Cross were shot and killed after stopping a 16-year-old juvenile on a stolen motorcycle.

During the ensuing struggle, the suspect gained control of Chief Cross' weapon and shot both officers. The juvenile offender was captured six hours later.

The juvenile had a long criminal record, mostly involving stolen motorcycles. Since 1978, he has served three terms in juvenile facilities. On February 14, 1985, he was convicted of two counts of capital murder and sentenced to life without parole. As of December 13, 2022, he was in prison. He has committed 28 major disciplinary violations.

The killing of Police Officer Roy Leon and Chief of Police Leonard Cross left the town without any full-time law enforcement officers.

Bio

Age 24
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

juvenile offender, stolen vehicle, traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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Officer Leon,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Cotton Plant. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

July 13, 2024