Officer Down Memorial Page

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office Officer Down Memorial exists to honor the deputies who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. These men and women answered the call knowing the risks, stood the line when others could not, and gave their lives protecting people they may never have known.

Each name remembered here represents more than a badge and a uniform. They were parents, children, friends, and partners. Their loss is felt not only within this agency, but throughout the families they left behind and the community they served with dedication and courage.

We remember them not only for how they died, but for how they lived and served. Their commitment, bravery, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. This memorial stands as a permanent reminder that freedom and safety are not free, and that the price is sometimes paid by those who choose to protect others above themselves.

We honor them. We remember them. We carry their legacy forward every day.

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On July 25, 1933, Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff Roy L. Shamblin was killed in the line of duty while transporting a prisoner to the state penitentiary in Moundsville, West Virginia.

Deputy Shamblin and Deputy George Dudley departed the Kanawha County Jail in Charleston that afternoon with prisoner Ralph Harper, who had been sentenced to 25 years for armed robbery. While traveling along State Highway Route 21 between Sissonville and Kenna in Jackson County, their vehicle was ambushed by armed suspects who had followed them from Charleston.

The attackers forced the deputies’ vehicle off the road and opened fire. Deputy Shamblin was killed in the assault. The prisoner was also killed, and Deputy Dudley was wounded but survived the attack.

The suspects fled the scene but were later captured in New York after being found in possession of firearms, including the revolver taken from Deputy Dudley during the ambush. They were returned to Kanawha County to face justice.

Three men, including the prisoner’s brother, were arrested and charged with two counts of murder. Two of the men were sentenced to life in prison. The third was sentenced to death and executed by hanging at the State Penitentiary. The wife of one of the men was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Deputy Roy L. Shamblin gave his life in service to the citizens of Kanawha County. His sacrifice is a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers have always faced, and the courage required to serve.

We remember Deputy Shamblin today and honor his dedication, his bravery, and his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Deputy Shamblin was survived by his wife and three children.

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Deputy Sheriff James Diamond was shot and killed with his own service weapon while attempting to arrest a man for creating a disturbance on Court Street.

The man fled into Vickers Alley and was pursued by Deputy Diamond. During the ensuing struggle, the man was able to gain control of Deputy Diamond’s service weapon and shot him.

The suspect was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to one year in prison on October 14th, 1941.

Deputy Diamond was survived by his wife.

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As we honor those whose names are etched here, we also reaffirm our commitment to those who continue to serve. We pray that no other Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff’s name is ever added to this memorial. Until that day comes, we will remember the fallen, support the living, and carry forward the duty they upheld with courage, honor, and sacrifice.