Patrolman James Spencer Johnson, East Lansing Police Department, Michigan

Patrolman James Spencer Johnson

East Lansing Police Department, Michigan

End of Watch Thursday, October 25, 1984

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James Spencer Johnson

Patrolman James Johnson was shot and killed inside an apartment while attempting to arrest a woman for auto theft at the East Glen Elderly Apartments at 1801 Hagadorn Road in East Lansing.

As he struggled with the woman, her male companion emerged from a bathroom and shot him in the back of the head. The two fled on foot to a nearby residence, where they shot and killed the unsuspecting owner. As they were trying to steal her car, they were arrested by police.

The man was convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree murder and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. The woman was acquitted of Patrolman Johnson's murder but was convicted of the other murder and sentenced to life.

Patrolman Johnson was a United States Army Vietnam veteran and had served with the East Lansing Police Department for 11 years. He was survived by his wife and six children.

Bio

Age 41
Tour 11 years
Badge 15
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

arrest attempt

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Patrolman Johnson,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just for your Community but for our Country as well when you served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

October 25, 2024