Jim Leavelle Autograph

Profession:
(1920-2019) Dallas Police Department homicide detective who, on November 24, 1963, was escorting John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald through the basement of Dallas Police headquarters when Oswald was shot by Jack Ruby. Leavelle prominently appeared in several famous photographs - including one that won a Pulitzer Prize - taken of Oswald just before and as Ruby pulled the trigger.

Year of Birth: 1920

James Robert Leavelle was born on August 23, 1920 in Red River County, Texas. He grew up in a small town and displayed an early interest in law enforcement. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Navy in 1942 and served during World War II. Leavelle was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to Texas.

In 1950, Leavelle joined the Dallas Police Department and quickly established himself as a dedicated and skilled detective. He worked on numerous high-profile cases and gained a reputation for his expertise in solving crimes. However, it was his involvement in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, that made him famous.

Leavelle was the Dallas Police detective who was handcuffed to Lee Harvey Oswald when Oswald was shot by Jack Ruby. The iconic photograph of the moment became one of the most memorable images from the tragic event. Leavelle provided crucial testimony during the subsequent investigations and trials.

After his retirement from the Dallas Police Department in 1975, Leavelle worked as a private investigator for several years. He also wrote a book, "To Protect and Serve: The Untold Story", which detailed his experiences as a police detective and his involvement in the JFK assassination case.

James Robert Leavelle was recognized for his dedication and achievements throughout his career. He received numerous awards and commendations, including the Police Medal of Valor. Leavelle passed away on August 29, 2019 at the age of 99, leaving behind a significant legacy in the field of law enforcement.