Family of Fallen Officer Asks Americans to Stand with Them Before July 14 Deadline
INDIANAPOLIS, June 26, 2026 — The National Police Association is asking supporters of law enforcement to join the family of fallen St. Paul Police Officer James T. Sackett Sr. in opposing the parole of the man convicted of murdering him in the line of duty.
Officer James T. Sackett Sr. was murdered on May 22, 1970, after responding to what appeared to be an emergency call reporting a pregnant woman in need of assistance. The call was a trap.
As Officer Sackett approached the front door of the residence, his partner moved toward the rear of the home. Moments later, a shot rang out. Officer Sackett was struck down and died that day.
According to evidence later presented in court, the ambush was orchestrated by individuals seeking notoriety through the murder of a police officer. Witnesses refused to cooperate, and the case remained unsolved for more than three decades.
Justice finally came 35 years later.
In 2005, a breakthrough occurred when Connie Trimble admitted she had placed the false emergency call that lured Officer Sackett and his partner to the house. Her admission reopened the investigation, ultimately leading to the indictment and conviction of Ronald Reed for Officer Sackett’s murder.
For Officer Sackett’s daughter, Julie Sackett, the conviction brought long-awaited accountability—but not closure.
Because Reed was sentenced under Minnesota law as it existed in 1970, he did not receive a sentence that guaranteed he would remain behind bars for life. Today, after approximately two decades in prison following his conviction, Reed is once again seeking parole.
This marks the fourth parole hearing the Sackett family has been forced to endure.
Julie was just 14 months old when her father was murdered. Her younger brother was only 20 days old. Officer Sackett had returned to work for his first shift after the birth of his son when he answered the call that cost him his life. Their mother was left to raise four children alone.
In her public appeal, Julie writes:
“We fight this crooked, broken system. We, the children of a slain police officer, have no justice. Thirty-five years with no answer and only sixteen years with the killer in prison before parole hearings begin. Where is the justice in that?”
Julie also expresses concern that the parole board appears inclined toward Reed’s release and is asking citizens to make their voices heard before a decision is made.
The National Police Association stands with the Sackett family. The murder of a police officer is an attack not only on one individual but on the rule of law itself. Families of fallen officers should not be forced to relive their loss repeatedly through parole proceedings decades after enduring years waiting for justice.
The Minnesota parole board is accepting public comments until July 14.
If you believe Ronald Reed should remain incarcerated for the murder of Officer James T. Sackett Sr., please consider submitting a respectful letter to the Minnesota parole board expressing your opposition to his release.
Public comments may be emailed to:
When writing, identify yourself, explain why you oppose parole in this case, and respectfully urge the board to deny Ronald Reed’s request for release. Ronald Reed’s inmate number is 219531.
The National Police Association encourages Americans to stand with Julie Sackett, her family, and the memory of Officer James T. Sackett Sr. by ensuring the voice of the public is heard.
Justice for a murdered police officer should not end with a conviction. It must include protecting the public, the family, and honoring the sacrifice of those who gave their lives serving their communities.
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