Constable James Spencer

Constable James Spencer

Breathitt County Constable's Office, Kentucky

End of Watch Saturday, January 29, 1927

Add to My Heroes

James Spencer

Constable Jim Spencer was shot and killed in Jackson, Kentucky, after ejecting three brothers from a restaurant for acting disorderly.

After ejecting them he was called to another restaurant where he ejected them again. As Constable Spencer struck up a conversation with some of the patrons the three entered and one shot him in the head.

All three brothers, 18, 22, and 24, were arrested and charged with murder. Charges were dropped against one. The gunman was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. Two years later his sentence was commuted to 10 years. The third suspect was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 10 years. He was paroled on June 24, 1931.

Constable Spencer was survived by his expectant wife and daughter.

Constable Spencer's brother, Constable Henry Spencer, succeeded him in office and was shot and mortally in the line of duty wounded on October 29th, 1927. Constable Henry Spencer died from his wounds on November 2nd, 1927.

Bio

  • Age 43
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Incident Date Sunday, January 23, 1927
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 10 years

disorderly, retaliation

Most Recent Reflection

View all 5 Reflections

Constable Spencer,
On today, the 98th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Breathitt County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

January 29, 2025

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.