Wilfred V. French, a 37-year-old white male, met a tragic end on December 3, 1910, in Cairo, Illinois. French, who served as a sergeant with the Cairo Police Department, was shot and killed by the Pulaski County Sheriff. The incident occurred after French had previously arrested the sheriff multiple times for causing disturbances while under the influence of alcohol. On the day of the incident, the sheriff demanded the return of a confiscated gun. When French refused and turned to walk away, the sheriff shot him in the back.
Following the shooting, the sheriff was arrested and charged with the murder of Sergeant Wilfred V. French. Despite the gravity of the crime, the sheriff was acquitted at trial. This outcome sparked outrage and highlighted the challenges of holding law enforcement officers accountable for their actions during that era. The case of Wilfred V. French remains a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by police officers and the complexities of the justice system in the early 20th century.
