Deputy Jailer Charles D. Wentworth, Shelby County Detention Center, Kentucky

Deputy Jailer Charles D. Wentworth

Shelby County Detention Center, Kentucky

End of Watch Monday, April 11, 1983

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Charles D. Wentworth

Deputy Jailer Charles Wentworth was shot and killed during an escape attempt at the Shelby County Jail at 501 Main Street in Shelbyville.

An inmate's girlfriend had smuggled a handgun into the jail. As Deputy Wentworth escorted the inmate to use the phone, he was shot in the abdomen and killed.

The inmate was captured, pleaded guilty to murder, and sentenced to two life terms in prison. the inmate's girlfriend was sentenced to 20 years for complicity to murder, complicity to escape, and theft charges.

Deputy Wentworth had served with the Shelby County Detention Center for two weeks and previously served as a constable. He was survived by his expectant wife and six children.

Bio

Age 45
Tour 2 weeks
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to 2 life terms

escape attempt, prisoner custody

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Deputy Jailer Wentworth,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Shelby County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

April 11, 2023