Golden Valley County Sheriff's Department, Montana
End of Watch Saturday, December 18, 1920
Add to My HeroesJesse Garfield
Sheriff Garfield succumbed to wounds received two weeks earlier while investigating a complaint on a rancher by the man's neighbor. As Sheriff Garfield knocked on the door the rancher opened fire with a shotgun, seriously wounding him. Sheriff Garfield attempted to drive back to town, but his patrol car's gas tank was also struck by the shotgun blast and his car ran out of gas. He was able to make it back to town after getting help from a railroad work crew. He succumbed to his wounds in a Billings hospital two weeks later.
The suspect was burned to death by a posse who set fire to his house after he opened fire on them and refused to surrender.
Sheriff Garfield had been with the agency for six months. His wife was appointed Sheriff to complete his un-expired term.
Bio
- Age 37
- Tour 6 months
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Incident Date Monday, December 6, 1920
- Weapon Shotgun
- Offender Deceased
Most Recent Reflection
View all 5 ReflectionsI currently work in the Golden Valley County Courthouse and walk by the photos of Sheriff Jesse and Sheriff Ruth everyday. I have huge admiration for the courage and bravery these fine officers of our County showed during such a tragic event.
We will always remember both of our "Sheriff Garfields" here in Golden Valley County and thank them for their service and sacrifice.
Robin Puckett, Deputy Treasurer
Treasurers Office, Golden Valley County
February 18, 2015