Sergeant James McGiven, New York Municipal Police Department, New York

Sergeant James McGiven

New York Municipal Police Department, New York

End of Watch Monday, July 24, 1876

James McGiven

Sergeant James McGiven died of wounds he received when he was stabbed while attempting to apprehend a thief.

A suspect had stolen a watch from a man who was walking on 8th Street, near 2nd Avenue. Several bystanders chased him until the suspect saw a police officer standing on the corner. The man then ran up another street but was confronted by Sergeant McGiven, who was in plainclothes and was walking home from police headquarters. Sergeant McGiven grabbed the suspect by the shoulder and swung him around. As he did so the man pulled out a knife and stabbed Sergeant McGiven in the stomach.

Another officer arrested the suspect and identified by Sergeant McGiven before he lapsed into unconsciousness. He was taken to his home, where he died several days later.

The suspect was sentenced to life in prison for Sergeant McGiven's murder. While in prison, he committed a second murder, for which he received the death penalty. He was executed on November 4, 1881.

Sergeant McGiven was assigned to the 17th Precinct, the present day 9th Precinct.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Stabbed
Incident Date Tuesday, July 18, 1876
Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
Offender Executed in 1881

Most Recent Reflection

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Your heroism and service is honored today, the 134th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen officer Larry Lasater

July 24, 2010