Patrolman John E. West, Nassau County Police Department, New York

Patrolman John E. West

Nassau County Police Department, New York

End of Watch Monday, February 4, 1946

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John E. West

Patrolman John West was shot and killed after arresting a speeder while assigned to the Highway Patrol Bureau and was transporting the suspect to the precinct house when he produced a gun and shot him.

The suspect, 24, was apprehended in Brooklyn three days later and confessed to the murder. He was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 45 years to life.

The Nassau County Police Department prohibited a single officer from transporting a prisoner as a result of Patrolman West's murder.

Patrolman West had served with the agency for 17 years.

Bio

Age 48
Tour 17 years
Badge 36

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

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Most Recent Reflection

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Today I was doing genealogical research on my Vollkommer branch and decided to focus on family of Anna Vollkommer who married Thomas West, their son was Patrolman Jack West. I’m happy to see that my cousin Jack has continued to honored for making the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens of Valley Stream and Nassau County. I have several cousins who presently serve with the Nassau County PD. My brother Tim is a retired NYSP Captain. Several of cousins are retired police officers and two of my nephews are serving police officers in upstate New York. It’s important that people remember that police officers are people with friends and families who love them. I’m happy to find that my cousin Jack served his community so honorably but sad that his wife and children suffered from such a tragic loss. Rest-in-peace cousin Jack.

Colonel, U.S. Army Retired Jos Sullivan
Cousin

August 2, 2024