Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

This story is not correct. I am the great niece of John Middleton. He died in front of the Evarts Drug Store, not in Kenvir. My dad, his nephew, was 8 years old at the time and was in the vehicle with John when he was shot in the head. The gunman also tried to shoot my dad, but the gun didn’t go off. The gunman then ran into the drug store and bragged that he had shot John Middleton and said he tried to shoot “that kid” but the gun wouldn’t go off. He then fired the gun and it went off in the drug store. He went to jail then and was convicted of John’s murder. I have the original Harlan Daily Enterprise article on it and my dad was a living witness. Several other witnesses there recounted this same story to me, after I was grown. Thank you for honoring him, but please correct this article, as this is part of Harlan County, KY history.

Celia Barley Joyce
Great Niece of John Middleton

November 25, 2021

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)

August 16, 2020

Deputy Sheriff Middleton,
On today, the 75th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Harlan County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

August 16, 2018

Thank you for your service Sir, RIP

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)

June 18, 2012

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. I am privileged to be the first to pay tribute to you. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 69th anniversary year 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 who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered.

Rest In Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

May 30, 2012