Sheriff James Lawrence Turner

James Lawrence Turner

Sheriff Turner was shot and killed as he and several deputies attempted to arrest four men for operating a still near Sanford. The suspects opened fire on the deputies with shotguns. Sheriff Turner suffered a mortal wound to the face. Two of the other deputies were also wounded.

All four suspects were apprehended the next day. On April 17, 1927, two of the suspects were convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 30 years in prison. One was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 29 years. The fourth and youngest suspect, age 21, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 10 to 15 years in prison.

Sheriff Turner had served as sheriff for only 3 months. He was survived by his wife and three children.