South Carolina Fraternal Order of Police

South Carolina Department of Corrections

SC Fallen Officers – April 22

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Today, we remember Aiken Police Department Patrolman Rufus H. Rodgers and South Carolina Department of Corrections Guard Archie M. Sox.

On this date in 1950, Officer Rufus Rodgers was shot and killed with his own weapon after responding to a domestic dispute between a father and two sons. Officer Rodgers is survived by his wife, son, and five daughters.

On this date in 1920, Guard Archie Sox was killed after being attacked by two inmates during an escape attempt from the DeSaussure State Prison Farm in Hagood, South Carolina. The subject who attacked Guard Sox was recaptured and subsequently sentenced to death for his murder. He was executed in the electric chair on March 4th, 1921.

SC Fallen Officers – March 12

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Today, we remember Anderson County Sheriff’s Office SC Master Deputy J. Alex Burdette, South Carolina Department of Corrections Corporal Joe Byrd, and Charleston County Police Detective William Patrick Messer.

On this date in 2005, Master Deputy J. Alex Burdette died of injuries sustained several hours earlier when he was struck by a vehicle on SC 81 near the intersection of Hayes Road. Deputy Burdette had served with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office for 4 years. He is survived by his wife and two young daughters.

On this date in 1936, Corporal Joe Byrd was attacked and killed by a 17-year-old ex-convict at about 5:35 am. Corporal Byrd had served with the South Carolina Department of Corrections for five years and had previously served with the Lancaster Police Department. He was survived by his wife, son, mother, and five sisters.

On this date in 1976, Detective William Messer was killed after being dragged to death underneath a vehicle. Detective Messer was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Detective Messer was survived by his wife and daughter.