Plaque Dedicated To Fallen Deputy Sheriff Who Died Trying To Stop A Robbery
By Steve Tawa
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A Deputy Sheriff who died back in 1982 trying to stop two men from robbing a bar in West Philadelphia now has a plaque dedicated in his honor, laid in the sidewalk in front of the Criminal Justice Center.
It's the 266th Hero Plaque Dedication, but organizer James Binns notes Roy Fortson, Jr. was the first Philadelphia Deputy Sheriff to be killed in the line-of-duty, since the office was founded in 1750.
"He could have taken a pass. The law enforcement officer in him came out and he did engage them, but was shot five times and killed."
His family is grateful for the recognition, including Fortson's widow, Edna.
"My heart is overwhelmed. I feel the love that you showed my husband. As a servant of god, he did what he was required to do that night, not knowing that it would be his last."
Philadelphia Sheriff Jewell Williams says laying the plaque outside the Criminal Justice Center serves as a reminder of the challenges brave officers face, and that "we will never forget a fallen officer."
