Attorney General on murder of deputy Sutphin

by WSLS Staff
Published: August 21, 2006

Virginia Attorney General released the following remarks concerning the death of Montgomery Co. Sheriff’s deputy Eric Sutphin. Authorities say Sutphin was shot by William Morva.

“Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department Corporal Eric E. Sutphin was a courageous Virginian. He dedicated his career to keeping the Commonwealth safe, and today the Commonwealth mourns his passing. He served his community with distinction as a law enforcement officer for 13-years, and was awarded the Governor’s Medal of Valor in 2003 when he was shot twice in the act of capturing the killer of another police officer. Today is a painful reminder of the peril faced daily by the law enforcement officers of Virginia, with seven having now fallen in the line of duty since January. They bravely serve, so that Virginians may safely live. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Corporal Sutphin.”

“With the news of the capture of William Charles Morva, I commend all the members of law enforcement involved in this effort. This was a joint operation that utilized all branches of law enforcement, and they have done their job well.”

--Bob McDonnell

Virginia Attorney General