Reserve Deputy John R. 'Sonny' Litch, Jr., aged 43, was shot and killed on October 22, 1981, in Youngstown, Ohio. He was a dedicated member of the Mahoning County Sheriff's Office and also served as a captain with the Campbell Fire Department. On the day of his death, he was transporting a prisoner, Robert Glenn, from the hospital back to the Mahoning County Jail.
As he stopped at a traffic light, another vehicle rammed into the back of his car.
When Litch got out to investigate, he was ambushed and shot with a sawed-off shotgun by John Glenn, the half-brother of the prisoner. Both Glenn and the prisoner, Robert Glenn, managed to escape but were apprehended two days later.
John Glenn was initially sentenced to death, but his sentence was later overturned, and he was given a life sentence. Robert Glenn, who was on crutches, was also involved in the escape attempt. The incident led to significant scrutiny of safety procedures for reserve deputies, as Litch was not the only officer shot that year in the Youngstown area.
The Ohio Fraternal Order of Police called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Litch's death, citing concerns about the lack of safety measures. Despite the tragedy, Litch's legacy lives on through the memories of his family, friends, and fellow officers.
Litch's death highlighted the challenges faced by reserve deputies, who often worked without pay and under difficult conditions due to budget constraints. His dedication to serving his community, both as a reserve deputy and a firefighter, was remembered by many who attended his funeral.
