Sheriff James O. West, Fulton County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

Sheriff James O. West

Fulton County Sheriff's Office, Kentucky

End of Watch Tuesday, August 11, 1925

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James O. West

Sheriff James West was shot and killed as he and the county jailer attempted to arrest a man who had been been making threats to neighbors. As the officers walked across the man's porch the man opened fire, striking Sheriff West in the head.

The suspect, age 50, a former mental patient, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life on September 25, 1925. He died at the Western State Lunatic Asylum on August 14, 1954.

Sheriff West had served as sheriff for four years. He was survived by his wife and son.

Bio

Age 46
Tour 4 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Died in mental hospital

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Sheriff West,
On today, the 100th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Fulton County. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

August 11, 2025