Policeman James J. Duffy

Policeman James J. Duffy | Charleston Police Department, South Carolina
Charleston Police Department, South Carolina
Policeman James J. Duffy

Charleston Police Department, South Carolina

End of Watch Sunday, July 16, 1916

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James J. Duffy

Policeman James Duffy was shot and killed while responding to a call for assistance from another officer. The other officer was attempting to arrest a group of people who were causing a disturbance while joyriding in a hack.

As Policeman Duffy approached the hack one of the men inside opened fire on him with a .38 caliber pistol, striking him twice.

The suspects were taken into custody by other officers. The shooter was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. On November 1, 1921, he was pardoned by Governor Robert Cooper who stated he had his doubts as to who did the shooting.

Policeman Duffy had served with the agency for 6 years. He was survived by his wife and two daughters and is buried in St. Lawrence Cemetery, Charleston, South Carolina.

Bio

  • Age 42
  • Tour 6 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun; .38 caliber
  • Offender Pardoned in 1921
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It's amazing how even back then politicians were every bit as clueless, crooked and self serving as they are today, but disturbingly so as to let a cop killer go is frightening. Officer Duffy, your assailant may have ultimately walked away from your untimely and heroic departure without as severe consequences as he deserved, but he surely faced a higher court and authority somewhere else as did hopefully the "esteemed and honorable" Governor Robert Cooper. Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Rest in peace always.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

July 16, 2020

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