Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services – Division of Correction
End of Watch: January 27, 2006
Twenty years have passed since the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services lost a dedicated correctional professional, yet the sacrifice of Correctional Officer Jeffery Alan Wroten continues to resonate throughout the corrections community.
On Friday, January 27, 2006, Officer Wroten succumbed to a gunshot wound sustained the previous morning while guarding an inmate at Washington County Hospital in Hagerstown, Maryland. The inmate, who was receiving medical treatment, was able to gain control of Officer Wroten’s service weapon during a struggle and shot him once in the face.
Following the shooting, the inmate fled the hospital and carjacked a taxicab, forcing the driver to cross into Pennsylvania before intentionally crashing the vehicle. The inmate then fled on foot back into Maryland, where he was taken into custody after a coordinated law enforcement response. On January 18, 2008, the suspect was convicted of Officer Wroten’s murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Officer Wroten had served with the Maryland Division of Correction for four years and was assigned to the medium-security Roxbury Correctional Institution. Prior to his service in Maryland, he honorably served with both the Florida Department of Corrections and the West Virginia Department of Corrections, demonstrating a career-long commitment to public safety and service.
Beyond the uniform, Officer Wroten was a devoted father of five, a loving son, brother, and friend. In accordance with the wishes of his family, Officer Wroten’s organs were donated, allowing others to live—an act that reflected the selflessness and compassion that defined his life. As one family member shared, “Jeffery is our hero, and this is the best way to honor him.”
Leaders at every level of Maryland government recognized Officer Wroten’s character and sacrifice. He was remembered as a kind, decent man, a pillar of strength to his colleagues, and a dedicated professional who took pride in protecting others. In his honor, Maryland state flags were ordered flown at half-staff until his interment.
As we mark 20 years since his End of Watch, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation honors Correctional Officer Jeffery Alan Wroten’s bravery, service, and ultimate sacrifice. We remember his dedication to duty and extend our continued support and gratitude to his family, loved ones, and fellow officers.
Rest in Peace, Officer Jeffery Alan Wroten.
Your service will never be forgotten.