Police Officer Charles T. Smith

Police Officer Charles T. Smith | Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin
Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin
Police Officer Charles T. Smith

Milwaukee Police Department, Wisconsin

End of Watch Wednesday, January 31, 1973

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Charles T. Smith

Police Officers Charles Smith and Gerald Hempe were shot and killed during a traffic stop.

While attempting to arrest the driver of the vehicle, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, a bystander who witnessed the stop walked up to the officers and opened fire, striking them both in the neck and head. The bystander had nothing to do with the stop.

The suspect was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to two consecutive life sentences on June 12, 1973. He was denied parole in 2010 and 2023. His next parole hearing is in 2027.

Officer Smith was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Milwaukee Police Department for eight months. He was survived by his wife.

Bio

  • Age 24
  • Tour 8 months
  • Badge Not available
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Sentenced to life

traffic stop, ambush

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Officer Smith,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

January 31, 2023

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