Guard Robert F. Stephens, Spartanburg County Detention Facility, South Carolina

Guard Robert F. Stephens

Spartanburg County Detention Facility, South Carolina

End of Watch Monday, October 26, 1914

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Robert F. Stephens

Guard Robert Stephens was killed after being struck on the head with a pick ax as he supervised a chaingang doing roadwork south of Arkwright, South Carolina.

After knocking the guard unconscious, the inmate then stole two pistols and $40 in cash from Guard Stephens' pockets before fleeing.

The man was arrested in New Orleans, Louisiana, on January 19, 1916 and returned to Spartanburg County and charged with Guard Stephens' murder.

The inmate who was serving a life sentence for a 1913 murder was convicted of Guard Stephens' murder and sentenced to death. He appealed and was granted a new trial. On October 5, 1917, he died in prison while awaiting his new trial.

Bio

Age 22
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Weapon Edged weapon; Pick ax
Offender Died in prison

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Robert,
On today, the 110th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of this state of South Carolina. There is no tougher job in Law Enforcement than that of a Corrections Officer.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 26, 2024