Police Officer Andrew W. Farthing, Montclair Police Department, California

Police Officer Andrew W. Farthing

Montclair Police Department, California

End of Watch Sunday, June 18, 1961

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Andrew W. Farthing

Officer Farthing was beaten to death by an 18-year-old youth when he and three other officers went to the suspect's home at 4790 Fauna Street in Montclair to break up teenage party neighbors were complaining about.

On November 2, 1961, the suspect was acquitted after a jury ruled that he was justified in beating the officer to death because he entered his home without a search warrant.

Officer Farthing had served with the Montclair Police Department for three years. He was survived by his wife and five-year-old son.

Bio

Age 27
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Weapon Officer's nightstick
Offender Acquitted

disturbance

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Officer Farthing, sir, I didn’t know you but knew of you. Montclair was only a few years old in 1961. We moved there while it was called Monte Vista. 1961 I was 15 years old. There was a lot of anger and disbelief and shock! My dad was very upset about this happening in our sleepy little city! I have thought about you many times over the years. May you Rest In Peace, Sir!

Civilian Bob Anders
Just a guy that grew up in Montclair

June 8, 2025