Officer Shawn Leinen, Denver Police Department, Colorado

Officer Shawn Leinen

Denver Police Department, Colorado

End of Watch Saturday, February 25, 1995

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Shawn Leinen

Officer Shawn Leinen was shot and killed while in a foot chase of a juvenile subject whom he had observed breaking into a car.

Officer Leinen was in the process of taking a shots fired call when he made the observation. He chased the youth into a dead end when the boy turned and fired, striking him in the chest. The rounds were stopped by his vest but knocked him down and stunned him. The youth then stood over Officer Leinen and shot him in the head.

Witnesses heard Officer Leinen shout at the youth "Don't do it man!" before being shot. On September 1st, 1995, the suspect was convicted of first degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.

Officer Leinen was a veteran of the Wyoming Air National Guard and served with the Denver Police Department for three years. He was survived by his expectant wife.

Bio

Age 28
Tour 3 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Sentenced to life

foot pursuit, juvenile offender

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Most Recent Reflection

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Shawn, so many years buddy & you are still in my thoughts. I know you’ve been looking over all of us here, since that terrible day. You certainly made a difference for many in your time here with us. I’m grateful for our time at Acacia, UW, WYANG & simply having yur guidance as a young man. Never Forgotten!

Jack Morrison
Shawn’s pledge son, Acacia Univ of WY

November 1, 2023