Village Marshal Lee Pena, Taos Police Department, New Mexico

Village Marshal Lee Pena

Taos Police Department, New Mexico

End of Watch Wednesday, December 20, 1944

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Lee Pena

Marshal Pena was shot and killed while questioning a drunk man at a local bar after receiving reports that the man had displayed a gun.

The suspect left the bar and went into the street with Marshal Pena without causing any problems. However, after they were in the street, the man produced a .32 caliber revolver and shot Marshal Pena in the chest.

The suspect was apprehended and sentenced to three life sentences without parole but was released after only 14 years.

Marshal Pena was a veteran of WWI and had served with the Taos Police Department for four years. He was survived by his wife and seven children.

Bio

Age 49
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Released after 14 years

alcohol violation, weapons violation

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Village Marshal Pena,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served during World War I. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

December 20, 2024