Hendry County Sheriff's Office, Florida
End of Watch Sunday, August 17, 1980
Add to My HeroesEarl Sermon Dyess, Sr.
Sheriff Earl Dyess was stabbed to death while investigating the sound of gunfire in an alley behind his home at 547 East Sagamore Avenue in Clewiston.
As he confronted two teenagers, he demanded one of them give him his .22 caliber pistol. As a struggle began for possession of the weapon, the 18-year-old's 15-year-old stepbrother stabbed him in the heart. Both boys were apprehended the next day.
The 15-year-old, who was tried as an adult, was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 137 years. He died in prison in 2021. His stepbrother, charged with manslaughter, had his case dismissed in 1981.
Sheriff Dyess had served with the Hendry County Sheriff's Office for 20 years. He was survived by his wife and two sons.
Bio
- Age 59
- Tour 20 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Stabbed
- Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
- Offender Sentenced to 137 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 15 ReflectionsRest in peace always knowing that your memory, service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.
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Delaware State Police (Retired)
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