Deputy Sheriff Cleatus L. Phillips

Deputy Sheriff Cleatus L. Phillips | New Madrid County Sheriff's Office, Missouri
New Madrid County Sheriff's Office, Missouri
Deputy Sheriff Cleatus L. Phillips

New Madrid County Sheriff's Office, Missouri

End of Watch Monday, September 12, 1960

Add to My Heroes

Cleatus L. Phillips

Deputy Sheriff Cleatus Phillips was shot and killed when he and the sheriff went to a home to question a man about allegations that he had abused his girlfriend.

Around 10:30 a.m., Deputy Phillips and the sheriff borrowed a car that the man would not recognize and drove to the home in the early morning. As Deputy Phillips stepped onto the back porch of the home, the suspect shot him in the face, killing him.

The suspect was arrested a short time later after a standoff. He was convicted of Deputy Phillips' murder and sent to prison for 60 years.

Deputy Phillips had served with the New Madrid County Sheriff's Office for 12 years. He was survived by his wife and three daughters.

Bio

  • Age 39
  • Tour 12 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Shotgun
  • Offender Sentenced to 60 years

domestic, warrant

LODD Mapping FAQs

Related LODD Deaths

Most Recent Reflection

View all 4 Reflections

Deputy Sheriff Phillips,
On today, the 60th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of New Madrid County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

September 12, 2020

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

Recent LODD Deaths