Deputy Sheriff John Derek Osborne, Denver Sheriff's Department, Colorado

Deputy Sheriff John Derek Osborne

Denver Sheriff's Department, Colorado

End of Watch Wednesday, August 7, 1974

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John Derek Osborne

Deputy Sheriff John Osborne was stabbed to death by two inmates who were attempting to escape from the Denver County Jail. The two, 30 and 33, had overpowered another guard, stabbed him and took his keys, and then came across Deputy Osborne, who was on his normal rounds. The two suspects overpowered Deputy Osborne and cut his throat with a 4-inch homemade blade.

The youngest, an escapee from the Colorado Penitentiary, was being held after he was captured. He was charged with Deputy Osborne's murder. The other suspect was being held for a several hold-ups of liquor stores in Dallas, Texas. Charges, related to Deputy Osborne's murder, were later dismissed against him.

The killer, 25, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. He was released in 2011.

Bio

Age 31
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Stabbed
Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
Offender Released in 2011

escape attempt

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Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Sheriff Osborne,
On today, the 50th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Denver County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 7, 2024