Rest in Peace, Officer Earl DeMarse

MBP Officer Earl DeMarse passed away on this day in 1973.

DeMarse, an officer with 26 years of experience, was about 15 minutes into his shift when he was stabbed several times. An ambulance was called, but DeMarse died while en route to a hospital.  His killer, Richard Goodard, was sentenced to life in prison. Goodard is locked up at an Ionia facility, according to MDOC records.

Last month, part of US 41 was renamed in honor of DeMarse.

For decades, DeMarse was thought to have been the first Michigan corrections officer killed in the line of duty. The story of George Haight, an officer poisoned by an inmate in 1893, was uncovered about two years ago.

As you go about your day, please take a few moments to remember DeMarse and the sacrifice he made. And as always, please watch your back and your partner’s back.

Thank you for your service in Michigan’s toughest job.