Sheriff J. Mart Murphy, Robertson County Sheriff's Department, Tennessee

Sheriff J. Mart Murphy

Robertson County Sheriff's Department, Tennessee

End of Watch Thursday, July 23, 1931

J. Mart Murphy

Sheriff Mart Murphy was shot and killed by a suspect he was attempting to arrest for bootlegging in Springfield, Tennessee.

When he and a local constable knocked on the door the suspect opened it and shot Sheriff Murphy in the stomach with a shotgun. He succumbed to his wounds two days later.

The suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to death. His sentence was later commuted to life. He was paroled May 15, 1950.

Sheriff Murphy had served with the Robertson County Sheriff's Office for five years. He was survived by his wife, child, and brother.

Bio

Age 44
Tour 5 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Tuesday, July 21, 1931
Weapon Shotgun
Offender Paroled in 1950

Most Recent Reflection

View all 3 Reflections

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 82nd anniversary year of your death. I am priviliged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. 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 Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater

January 16, 2013