Sheriff James M. Nelson, Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska

Sheriff James M. Nelson

Cheyenne County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska

End of Watch Saturday, February 22, 1930

James M. Nelson

Sheriff James Nelson was shot and killed while looking for a state mental hospital escapee who had just forced his father at gunpoint to withdraw $600 from a bank in Sidney.

Sheriff Nelson and his deputy stopped the subject in Sidney. As Sheriff Nelson exited the patrol car he was shot in the head. The man then shot and wounded the deputy before fleeing. The man was shot and killed after being located by a posse several hours later.

Sheriff Nelson was survived by his wife and six children.

Bio

Age 54
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Thursday, February 20, 1930
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Shot and killed

EDP, escapee

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Most Recent Reflection

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I've read about you, mr sheriff Nelson this last week. I also thank you for your service and am sorry to read about your ultimate sacrifice. I believe you must have been an incredibly respected man and loved by many according to over 3000 to 3500 people to attend your funeral service. Your legacy is real and lives on to this day.

Steve Mika
Cheyenne County Historical Association Board member

July 2, 2018