Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace always knowing that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

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

September 24, 2020

Rest in peace Patrolman Basnett.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

May 17, 2019

Rest in peace.

Sgt. Jim Russo

September 24, 2016

God Bless

Dave
None

September 25, 2012

As an update Randy's daughter, Amanda, age 35, died 12-23-11. They are now reunited in Heaven.

Cindy Basnett Thurman
sister

December 25, 2011

that is so sad for his family and being such a young man, husband and father!

crystal basnett
distance cousin

October 10, 2011

I was a young teen riding, on my bike, to the store, where Off BASNETT was shot. As I go through the intersection I see several Police cars going through the intersection and one on them I think is my karate instructer Bob ROSS/Ft Smith Police Officer. Im not sure because I only got a quick look. As I get to the store I see the aftermath of Randy's sacrifice. Those next few minutes were life changing for me as from that point on I realized that I wanted to be a part of that Police Union that truly stands for something greater than oneself. I realized that if Randy would not have confronted Swindler at that moment in time that that just as easy could have been me or someone else being tended to by the EMS. Seeing that sacrifice and bravery, as a youngster made know that I would someday become a Police Office. Ten years later in 1986 I become a Police Officer. I know that Off BASNETT does not know me or what impact that he had on my life but I want to say to all out there that his sacrifice was not in vain and he touched people in ways that he would never know. Randy BASNETT along with Bob ROSS are true heroes. True Heroes!
That little teenager thanks you Mr BASNETT for what you sacrificed that night because your sacrifice protected me and others that night.
Thank you,

Detective R FREEMAN
San Antonio Police

Det Reginald FREEMAN
San Antonio Police

February 3, 2011

Your heroism and service is honored today, the 34TH anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

I pray for the solace of all those who love and remember you for I know both the pain and pride are forever.

Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya

Phyllis Loya
mother of fallen oficer Larry Lasater

September 24, 2010

Randy:
I was on duty the day you encountered Swindler. I still think of that day and the sacrifice you made. Most people do not realize that Swindler's intent was to encounter as many officers as possible and kill them. There is no doubt in my mind that you saved the lives of countless officers and civilians by approaching him.

I remember your sense of humor and your practical jokes....
however, your bravery to take down a horrendous criminal who left murdered and raped victims in his wake as he passed through differing states is what I remember when I think of you, which is often. When I am in Ft. Smith, I stop by your gravesite. You are not forgotten.

Rest in peace
Jan

Jan Kelly
Former Ft. Smith Officer

June 9, 2010

I took a different route to work this morning and passed by the station where you lost your life. As I passed it while driving on the interstate my thoughts just went straight to you. Just felt like I should visit your memorial page and let you know that you were being thought about today. That was 33 years ago, I was only 8 years old. I have thought about you hundreds of times since that day. You are never forgotten.

Cindy Lairamore

February 18, 2010

A hero to more than he knows. ©2004

Lane Family - Ephrata, WA
Family of Ferry County WA Undershriff Matthew J Lane, EOW 5/30/2003

November 16, 2009

Just wanted to stop in and say that you have not been forgotten. Continue to keep watch over all of your loved ones and those still out on patrol.

Bob Gordon
Father of Chicago Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

February 1, 2009

Randy Basnett was my first cousin. I remember him as being fun-loving and flirty, adventuresome and loving. He is deeply missed by his family.

Cheryl
Cousin

September 30, 2008

Thank you for your service...Rest in peace, you and your family are not forgotten.

Former PSP Civilian

September 8, 2008

Hi Cindy, my name is terry, I am the surviving spouse of Officer Emilio Miyares, everyday I came to this website and when I find a new officer I write a reflection and read the other left for the officer and everytime I see yours it brings a smile to my face, as if I know you, well you see my brother lives in AR and my sister in law's name is Cindy, and today I decided to come to your brothers page and I see that he worked from Fort Smith, well that is where my brother and sister in law lives. Please, if you still in Fort Smith I will like for you to get in contact with me, we have a C.O.P.S. Chapter in AR and they are trying to get survivors from Fort Smith together.

thanks for all those beautiful words for the survivors.

Terry Miyares, surviving spouse
Officer Emilio Miyares, Hialeah PD, Fl 11/6/86

September 7, 2008

You have not been forgotten as true heroes never die. Continue to watch over and protect those that love your dearly and carry your memory in their hearts. Thank you for your dedicated service to law enforcement.

Bob Gordon
Father of Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

August 31, 2008

Rest in Peace, Patrolman Basnett. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

July 28, 2008

You are still loved. Some people think time heals all wounds but I read a quote in a magazine that comes to mind. Time does not heal all wounds time just takes us with it. Your bravery and heroic actions will never be forgotten. You made the ultimate sacrifice. I just wish sometimes that people would realize that officers have families too. Rest in peace.

Sharon Atkins, Identical Twin Sister of Norfolk Officer Sheila Herring EOW 01-16-03

Sharon Atkins

May 19, 2008

Thank you for your service...

CC3 James Stalcup
Tennessee Department of Correction

March 6, 2008

Today I honor the courage and commitment of Patrolman Basnett. Praying that the family's Christmas is filled with joy because of the memories you hold dear and because of the hope we have because of the babe in the manger.

December 22, 2007

Patrolman Basnett Rest in Peace and thank you for setting a high standard for all Officers to admire.

Cindy
I want to thank you for your kind words in behalf of Joshua Norris my future son in law back in July. Your words have help my daughter and my family.

Deputy John Latour
Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office

December 19, 2007

For Fellow Historians: Arkansas has only had two electric chairs. The first was used from 1913-1964. The second was built in the 1970’s. The Robert Redford movie “Brubaker,” was instrumental in helping William J. Clinton become the Governor. A legislative act in 1983 made lethal injection the only Arkansas method of execution, but inmates who were sentenced to death before the legislation was adopted were allowed to choose how they would die.

John Edward Swindler, was truly one bad hombre who wreaked terror in my home state of South Carolina, as well as several other southern states, after being paroled from Leavenworth. He showed no remorse after murdering Patrolman Basnett. Even when given the choice, Swindler refused to choose between lethal injection or electrocution. By not choosing, he effectively picked electrocution, and became the only person executed in the second electric chair.

Patrolman Basnett: Thank You for serving the community where my “adopted family” hails from. May Your Soul Rest-In-Peace.

Maj M. B. Parlor
USMC / LAPD

September 24, 2007

The 31st Anniversary of your brutal murder is rapidly approaching. I was working as an Auxilliary Officer in Fayetteville at the time Randy was murdered. I vividly remember the anger, fear, and sadness I felt as I heard ASP Troop "H" put out the broadcast over the scanner in our patrol car. I was literally shaking in my boots. For many days after the murder, I questioned whether or not being a police officer was the right job for me. I finally came to the decision that it WAS the right decision and if I could prevent just one innocent person from falling victim to a cowardly murderer, then it would all be worth it. To your family and friends, please take comfort in the fact that Randy will FOREVER be a hero and will NEVER be forgotten.

DET SGT, Retired
Fayetteville PD, AR

September 10, 2007

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

August 6, 2007

"The Badge"
He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.
He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.
Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.
He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.
His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.
He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.
And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.
But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.
Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.
Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.
So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.
In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.
Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.
Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

August 6, 2007