Assistant Chief of Police Bill Jewel "Putt" Linder

Bill Jewel "Putt" Linder

Assistant Chief Bill Linder was shot and killed with his own service weapon after responding to a burglary call on Harlem Street at 10:00 a.m.

Upon his arrival, Chief Linder encountered a suspect. As he attempted to arrest the suspect, a struggle ensued and the suspect was able to gain control of Chief Linder's service weapon. The suspect then shot and killed the chief.

When backup deputies from the Franklin Parish Sheriff's Office arrived on the scene, they encountered the suspect wielding a hammer. The deputies were able to arrest the suspect without incident.

Assistant Chief Linder was transported to Franklin Parish Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect was charged with first-degree murder. In May 2005, he was sentenced to life in prison.

Assistant Chief Linder was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran who had served with the 4-person Wisner Police Department for 3 years and had previously served with the Baskin Police Department for approximately 6 years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, two sons, a nephew, five brothers, and six grandchildren. One of his sons also served in law enforcement.