The Panola County Sheriff’s Office observed Deputy Joe Cosby Day in Panola County, honoring the deputy on the anniversary of his death on Sept. 30, 1988. Cosby’s end-of-watch date was Sept. 30, 1988.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Cosby was 48 years old when he began his assignment that day. He was to travel to the Tunica County Jail and pick up a convicted felon for a court appearance in Panola County.
The Sheriff’s Office said that, in the North Batesville area on Highway 51, the prisoner injured and overpowered Cosby. The prisoner used a shank made from a toothbrush while in jail and took possession of Cosby’s gun, the office said.
A fight followed, and Cosby was killed, according to the account. The prisoner then tried to escape but was apprehended near the water treatment plant on Old Panola, on the outskirts of Batesville, by numerous law enforcement personnel who responded to the scene.
The Sheriff’s Office said the prisoner is serving a life sentence at the State Penitentiary. Cosby’s badge number was P-5, and the number was retired and will not be worn by another member of the Panola County Sheriff’s Office.
