Deputy Sheriff William James Truesdale, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Colorado

Deputy Sheriff William James Truesdale

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Colorado

End of Watch Wednesday, June 18, 1986

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William James Truesdale

Deputy Truesdale was shot and killed while moonlighting at Citywide Bank of Lakewood at on south Wadsworth Boulevard. Two armed suspects entered the bank and were immediately confronted by Deputy Truesdale. Both suspects had previously been incarcerated in the Jefferson County Jail where Deputy Truesdale served as a detentions deputy. One of the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding him. Both suspects were later arrested and sentenced to life.

Deputy Truesdale was survived by his wife and three children. He was killed on his anniversary, two months before he planned to retire.

Bio

Age 53
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 18, 2025