James Parsons

Death by Force

On a Tuesday afternoon, June 30, 1903, in Centralia, Washington, the life of Deputy Marshal James C.A. Parsons, a 56-year-old man, was tragically cut short. The events leading to his death began with a complaint about a man, who identified himself as John Smith, making obscene remarks to children at the Harbor Hotel. Marshal Henry Schields initially responded to the complaint and, after speaking with Smith, decided to obtain an arrest warrant before taking him into custody. He instructed Deputy ...Read More

Marshal James C. A. Parsons

Parsons, Deputy Marshal James C.A. - Behind the Badge Foundation