Trooper Michael Todd Blanton Virginia State Police, Virginia End of Watch: Jan. 29, 2003 Age: Years on The Job: Badge Number: Cause of Death: Vehicle Assault   Trooper Blanton, 29, was killed after stopping a driver suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol on the Gaskins Road exit ramp from I-64. Trooper Blanton was reaching inside the suspect's car as the driver sped off, dragging him for several hundred yards before crashing. The car rolled over, pinning Trooper Blanton underneath. Trooper Blanton was transported to MCV Hospital where he later died. The suspect was apprehended a short time later by Henrico County Police officers, who found him running on a nearby road. The suspect was charged with capital murder, felony hit-and-run, and other charges. On September 27, 2003, the suspect was convicted of second degree murder and eluding a police officer, but was acquitted of abduction. He was sentenced to 56 years in prison. Trooper Blanton had been with his agency for five years. He had also served with the Henrico County Sheriff's Department for two years, and was a United States Air Force Security Policeman for four years. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and is survived by his wife and 6 year-old son.    Agency Information   Submit a Condolences Subscribe to Officer Down E-Mail Alerts Walk tall, walk tall and protect us from above with honor and dignity. May you lead the charge for citizens right in heaven as you did here on earth Darrell Thompson Privet Security Officer St. Clair Co. MI, Community College Campus Patrol #14 darrell@policespecial.com www.sc4.edu Rest in peace, and may God allow him to keep watch over us on earth while he patrols his beat in heaven. Our prayers go out to the Officer and his Department and family. May they all find peace in their hearts soon. From all the Staff at Police Special Inc. Contact us to have information posted or if you have any info pertaining to already posted information. Please contact a Police Special Inc. or Fax to 866-809-5551  Contact us