Deputy Sheriff John M. Box, Copiah County Sheriff's Office, Mississippi

Deputy Sheriff John M. Box

Copiah County Sheriff's Office, Mississippi

End of Watch Saturday, October 17, 1942

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John M. Box

Deputy Sheriff John Box was shot and killed in Hazlehurst while he and another deputy attempted to arrest a man who had failed to report to the county farm to serve a 90-day sentence on a liquor violation.

He had arrested the man several times before without trouble. When they arrived at the man's home to take him into custody the man opened fire, killing Deputy Box. The man then fled to Chicago, Illinois, where he was arrested by the FBI in February 1944. The following month he was freed by a judge who refused to extradite him to Mississippi for fear that he would be lynched. The subject was still in Chicago in 1955 and it is not known if he was ever tried for Deputy Box's murder.

Deputy Box was survived by his wife and two children.

Bio

Age 56
Tour 7 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Arrested

alcohol violation, warrant service

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Most Recent Reflection

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On this the 83rd anniversary of your death, your memory and your sacrifice is remembered and honored. Your legacy of service continues to inspire.

My cherished son Pittsburg Officer Larry Lasater was killed in the line of duty on April 24, 2005.

Time never diminishes respect . You will always be revered. Rest in Peace.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

October 17, 2025