Deputy Sheriff Henry F. Nelson

Deputy Sheriff Henry F. Nelson

Riverside County Sheriff's Department, California

End of Watch Thursday, September 22, 1921

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Henry F. Nelson

Deputy Sheriff Henry Nelson and Deputy Sheriff Theodore Crossley were shot and killed when they went to investigate a charge of hay theft in Belleville, California.

When the officers arrived at the scene one of the suspects opened fire, killing both deputies.

The man was sentenced to death for the murders and was hanged at San Quentin State Prison on February 24th, 1922.

The subsequent search for the suspects was the first time airplanes were used in California for law enforcement searches.

Deputy Nelson had served with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for 14 years. He was survived by his wife, three children, mother, and three brothers.

Bio

  • Age 47
  • Tour 14 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Gun; Unknown type
  • Offender Executed in 1922

larceny

Most Recent Reflection

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Yesterday was 103 years since your murder. We want to let you, your friends and Family know that not a day passes by that yours and your partners service and sacrifice is not acknowledged in some way. Your pictures drape our walls. Hence we never forget.

Elizabeth
RSO Widow and RSA Member

September 23, 2024

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