Deputy Sergeant William A. Cook, Danville Sheriff's Office, Virginia

Deputy Sergeant William A. Cook

Danville Sheriff's Office, Virginia

End of Watch Saturday, March 7, 1896

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William A. Cook

Deputy Sergeant William Cook was shot and killed by a prisoner who was attempting to escape from the city jail at the intersection of Court Street and Patton Street, where the Municipal Building currently stands.

The prisoner, who had just been sentenced to the penitentiary for burglary, had obtained a pistol that had been smuggled into the jail by a female acquaintance. He shot Deputy Sergeant Cook three times and then fled from the jail.

The man committed suicide the following day after being surrounded by a posse inside a home on Washington Street. The woman who smuggled the gun to the prisoner was convicted of being an accessory before the fact and sentenced to 18 years in prison.

Deputy Sergeant Cook was murdered four days before his 55th birthday. He was survived by his wife and daughter.

Bio

Age 54
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Committed suicide

correctional Facility, escape attempt

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Most Recent Reflection

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Deputy Sergeant Cook, Although you may never be cognizant that this reflection exists-The memory or your service and ultimate sacrifice are recognized in Danville annually. During Police Week the past 15 years since I have been in office, we send a reminder to all of our staff to remember you and remember how you died. Also, a NLEOMF etching is affixed at the front door of the courthouse to remind our sworn staff of the dangers of this job. Unfortunately, we don't know a lot about how you lived, other than serving honorable for our office. If any relatives happen to read this message, feel free to contact me. I hope you are resting easy Sarge, we will continue to defend our community in your honor.

Sheriff Mike Mondul
Danville Sheriff's Office

May 8, 2024