Deputy Sheriff James Lee Clarius, Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana

Deputy Sheriff James Lee Clarius

Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana

End of Watch Saturday, October 5, 1996

Add to My Heroes

James Lee Clarius

Deputy James Clarius was killed while involved in a struggle with an armed robbery suspect at West Esplanade Avenue and Page Drive in Metairie.

During the struggle, the subject was able to gain control of his service weapon and shot him four times. Deputy Clarius was found in the street by a resident approximately ten minutes after the incident. He was transported to East Jefferson Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.

The suspect turned himself in three days later. He was convicted of first-degree murder on April 27, 1999, and sentenced to life in prison.

Deputy Clarius had served with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office for nine years. He is survived by his wife and two young sons.

Bio

Age 34
Tour 9 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Officer's handgun
Offender Sentenced to life in prison

arrest attempt, robbery

LODD Mapping FAQs

Most Recent Reflection

View all 49 Reflections

That fateful day of the 5th of October, 1996, you were my relief in the 4-8. At 6am I went home to the safe comfort of my bed, while you stood guard over all of us. In less than one hour you would be taken from us.

At 10am, I awoke to the phone call only to hear those dreaded words, “Jimmy was killed.” I felt instant grief, guilt, and anger. I, like everyone else, wanted to be there for you; but I was asleep then and hated myself for it.

Today, some 27 years later, I read the 911 and dispatch transcripts from that early morning, and I was there, responding code-3 to you with our brothers and sisters, crying all the way.

Each day at work, I see your image on the wall of fallen JP heroes, and I think of you. Just know that we all think of you still.

JP 408 Nightwatch

Sgt D
JPSO

May 19, 2023