Guard Robert H. Holtman, Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services

Guard Robert H. Holtman

Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services - Division of Correction, Maryland

End of Watch Saturday, February 21, 1925

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Robert H. Holtman

Guard Robert Holtman was pushed and then beaten to death by an inmate who had been disobeying him.

After being pushed, Guard Holtman was attempting to draw his weapon when the inmate struck him on the head with a metal pipe, causing fatal injuries. The suspect escaped from the state penitentiary in Baltimore, but was eventually apprehended in New York state. He was returned to Maryland where he was found guilty of murdering Guard Holtman and sentenced to death. The suspect was hung at the state penitentiary on August 14th, 1926.

The suspect was a member of a New York City gang that had robbed merchants. On November 2nd, 1926, two other members of the gang attempted to escape from the Tombs Jail in New York City. During the escape attempt, the suspects murdered Warden Peter Mallon and Keeper Jeremiah Murphy. Both suspects committed suicide during the failed escape attempt.

Guard Holtman was survived by his wife.

Bio

Age Not available
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Incident Date Friday, February 20, 1925
Weapon Blunt object; Pipe
Offender Executed in 1926

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Most Recent Reflection

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Robert,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of the state of Maryland. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. There is no tougher job in Law Enforcement than that of a Corrections Officer.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

February 21, 2025