In an attempt to escape from the Shelby County Jail, a male inmate shot and killed Deputy Jailer Charles Wentworth. A handgun was smuggled into the jail by the inmate's girlfriend, which he then used to shoot Deputy Wentworth in the abdomen as he was being escorted to use the telephone.
The inmate was apprehended and subsequently pleaded guilty to murder. He was sentenced to two life terms in prison for his crimes.
The inmate's girlfriend, who provided the weapon, was sentenced to 20 years for her role in the murder, as well as for complicity to escape and theft charges. At the time of his death, Deputy Wentworth had been with the Shelby County Detention Center for two weeks, having previously served as a constable. He was survived by his expectant wife and six children.
