Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Department Louisiana
End of Watch: Saturday, June 5, 1999

Biographical Info
Age: 21
Tour of Duty: 2 years
Badge Number: AU-20

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Automobile accident
Date of Incident: Saturday, June 5, 1999
Weapon Used: Automobile
Suspect Info:  Killed in accident

Deputy Ratcliff was killed when his cruiser was struck head-on by a vehicle which crossed into his lane. The impact caused both vehicles to burst into flames and both vehicles were burnt beyond recognition. The other driver was killed in the crash as well.

Deputy Ratcliff had served with his agency for 3 years. He is survived by his wife and 2-year-old son.

Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Department Louisiana
End of Watch: Wednesday, March 1, 2006

Biographical Info
Age: 31
Tour of Duty: 8 years
Badge Number: AU-15

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Wednesday, March 1, 2006
Weapon Used: Officer’s handgun
Suspect Info: Convicted of manslaughter. Sergeant Jeremy Newchurch was shot and killed with another officer’s service weapon while struggling with a narcotics suspect on Georgette Street.

Sergeant Newchurch was working with the agency’s narcotics task force, conducting an operation in a high drug traffic area. The task force observed a vehicle parked in the roadway and approached it to question the driver. As they did, the driver sped off and crashed into a nearby ditch. When Sergeant Newchurch attempted to arrest the suspect, a struggle ensued.

During the struggle, the suspect attempted to take another deputy’s weapon. The weapon discharged and the round struck Sergeant Newchurch in the chest, just above his vest. He was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect was taken into custody and charged with first degree murder of a police officer and several other charges. He later plead guilty to manslaughter and possession of narcotics with intent to distribute.

Sergeant Newchurch had served with the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Department for eight years.