Remembering a Fallen Officer 60 Years After His End of Watch

On May 14, we honor the memory of Jail Master David Robinson Sr. on the 60th anniversary of his End of Watch.

Jail Master Robinson was shot and killed on May 14, 1961, during an escape attempt by two inmates at the Middlesex Jail in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In a courageous effort to stop the escape and protect others, he was fatally wounded by the suspects, both of whom were awaiting trial for murder.

One of the suspects later died by suicide when police stormed a Boston apartment where he was hiding. The second suspect was captured four days later after robbing and murdering a store owner in New Hampshire. He was convicted on two counts of murder and sentenced to life in prison. In December 1985, he escaped custody and remained a fugitive for nearly 20 years before being apprehended in Chicago on March 22, 2005. He was later denied parole in 2010.

A native of Concord, Massachusetts, Jail Master Robinson made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his community with courage and dedication. His actions on that tragic day reflect the extraordinary risks correctional professionals face while protecting the public and maintaining safety within our institutions.

This milestone anniversary serves as an important reminder that the sacrifices of correctional staff must never be forgotten.

In recognition of the anniversary, Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian welcomed Peter Robinson, nephew of the late Jail Master Robinson, to the Middlesex Jail & House of Correction in Billerica to visit the memorial honoring sworn and civilian members who died while serving the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office. Also present was Ducakis Germain of the Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard.

Today, we remember Jail Master David Robinson Sr. for his bravery, service, and sacrifice. Though six decades have passed, his legacy continues to endure within the corrections profession and among those who proudly honor his memory.

We will never forget.