Honoring A Memory of True Valor | Deputy Frederick Baker

On the important date of January 9, almost 100 years ago, Deputy Frederick Baker led a group of men on one of the bravest missions in Palm Beach Sheriff office history. He paid dearly with his life but his act of bravery, will never be forgotten. Fallen Deputy Frederick Baker who was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a group of fugitives in the Everglades, 25 miles north of West Palm Beach. This gang was wanted for crimes spanning several years, including the murders of Deputy Wilber Hendrickson, of the Dade County Sheriff’s Department, and Officer John Riblet, of the Miami Police Department, on June 2, 1915.

Deputy Baker was leading a posse when they entered the fugitive gang’s camp. As the posse entered the camp, the fugitives opened fire. Deputy Baker and one of the suspects were killed in the shootout.

The remaining fugitives fled into the swamp as their hideout was burned to the ground. On November 1, 1924, the four remaining members of the gang were shot and killed when a posse located them in St. Lucie County.

We will forever remember Deputy Baker and will continue to honor his memory for years to come.