Patrol Officer Johnnie Norris Patterson, Jr., Winter Haven Police Department, Florida

Patrol Officer Johnnie Norris Patterson, Jr.

Winter Haven Police Department, Florida

End of Watch Saturday, March 8, 1997

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Johnnie Norris Patterson, Jr.

Patrol Officer Johnnie Patterson was shot and killed at approximately 4:30 am after making a traffic stop at the intersection of 21st Street SW and Avenue D.

The driver he stopped fled on foot, with Officer Patterson in pursuit. Officer Patterson called for backup but was not heard from again. Approximately one hour later, his body was found by a Polk County canine officer in a wooded area with a fatal gunshot wound.

He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect was arrested several days later, found guilty of murder, and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Officer Patterson's father was with him on a ride-along at the time of the incident.

Officer Patterson had served with the Winter Haven Police Department for seven months. He is survived by his mother, father, brother, and sister.

Bio

Age 25
Tour 7 months
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun
Offender Sentenced to life

traffic stop

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Most Recent Reflection

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As a career employee of the City of Winter Haven, Florida, and as the current City Manager, I praise Officer Patterson for his commitment to our citizens and for making the absolute sacrifice in the pursuit of ensuring our safety. Following his passing, I had the honor of working with his father who, in honor of his son, became a Police Officer for Winter Haven. Every year we pay tribute to Officer Patterson with a ceremony in the park that was renamed in his memory. He will forever be honored in our community.

T. Michael Stavres, City Manager
City of Winter Haven, Florida

April 29, 2025