Deputy Sheriff Henry F. Nelson

Deputy Sheriff Henry F. Nelson | Riverside County Sheriff's Department, California
Riverside County Sheriff's Department, California
Deputy Sheriff Henry F. Nelson

Riverside County Sheriff's Department, California

End of Watch Thursday, September 22, 1921

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Henry F. Nelson

Deputy Sheriff Henry Nelson and Deputy Sheriff Theodore Crossley were shot and killed when they went to investigate a charge of hay theft in Belleville, California.

When the officers arrived at the scene one of the suspects opened fire, killing both deputies.

The man was sentenced to death for the murders and was hanged at San Quentin State Prison on February 24th, 1922.

The subsequent search for the suspects was the first time airplanes were used in California for law enforcement searches.

Deputy Nelson had served with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for 14 years. He was survived by his wife, three children, mother, and three brothers.

Bio

  • Age 47
  • Tour 14 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Executed in 1922

larceny

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Deputy Sheriff Nelson,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Riverside County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

September 22, 2021

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