Chief of Police Joseph Stephen Henderson, Tifton Police Department, Georgia

Chief of Police Joseph Stephen Henderson

Tifton Police Department, Georgia

End of Watch Saturday, July 18, 1942

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Joseph Stephen Henderson

Chief Joseph Henderson and Patrolman Mercer Denby were shot and killed by a drunken soldier Patrolman Denby had arrested. The suspect was able to gain control of Patrolman Denby's weapon and shot him. The suspect then fled into the streets and started to fire the gun randomly.

Chief Henderson was shot when he rushed to the scene to assist Patrolman Denby. Patrolman Denby succumbed to his wounds 6 weeks later.

The suspect was sentenced to death and executed in the electric chair at Reidsville State Prison on May 28, 1943.

Chief Henderson had served with the agency for 14 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

Bio

Age 55
Tour 14 years
Badge CHIEF

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .32 caliber
Offender Executed in 1943

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Chief Henderson,
On today, the 80th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Tifton. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

July 18, 2022