Deputy Sheriff James Rondeau Dickinson of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was killed on August 22, 1989, in Royal Palm Beach, Florida. He was serving a commitment order at the home of a Vietnam War veteran who had barricaded himself inside when the suspect opened fire with a high-powered rifle. Dickinson sought cover and radioed for help but was fatally shot. He had been with the Sheriff’s Office for nine years and was remembered for his dedication, discipline, fitness routine, and friendly demeanor.

The suspect was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, ultimately convicted of second-degree murder and given a prison sentence; records indicate the suspect later died in 2003. The killing had a deep impact on the community and on Dickinson’s colleagues. Does anyone have memories of Deputy Dickinson or information about this case that could add context to what happened that day?