The Indiana Parole Board considered clemency on Monday for the man convicted of murdering a Beech Grove police officer 25 years ago. The same day, Beech Grove Mayor James Coffman honored the officer’s legacy with a proclamation (Photo Credit: Beech Grove).
Beech Grove honors fallen officer
The proclamation honored Officer William R. Toney, who was killed in the line of duty on Sept. 29, 2000. Toney left behind a wife, DeeDee Horen, and two young daughters. The proclamation also proclaimed May 11–17 as National Police Week in Beech Grove, aligning with national observances that recognize the sacrifice and service of law enforcement officers.
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Toney had served more than two years with the Beech Grove Police Department before he was fatally shot while pursuing a suspect on foot. That suspect, Benjamin Ritchie, was convicted of murder in 2002 and sentenced to death. After several years of legal appeals, Ritchie’s execution was scheduled for May 20.
Benjamin Ritchie clemency hearing
Ritchie had his first clemency hearing on May 5 at the Indiana State Prison. He had his second hearing Monday at the Indiana Government Center South Auditorium.
According to WISH-TV, Toney’s widow, Dee Dee Horen, testified in opposition to clemency for Ritchie during the hearing.
“It is time. It’s time for this chapter of my story, our story, to be closed,” she said. “It’s time to remember Bill’s life, not his death. It is time.”
Toney’s sister, brother-in-law, and mother, Jo Ann Toney, also opposed clemency for Ritchie, and several Beech Grove Police Department officers filled the back row of the auditorium at the hearing.
Mayor Coffman’s proclamation
In his proclamation honoring the fallen Beech Grove officer, Mayor Coffman urged residents to reflect on the “dedication, professionalism, and courage” of local law enforcement, and to pay “special tribute to Officer William Toney,” whose “courage, honor, and service will never be forgotten.”
A collage shared by the city shows Officer Toney in uniform, playing with his children, and a commemorative badge bearing his name and badge number – 37.
The badge reads, “Nothing remains quite the same,” underscoring the lasting impact of his death on the community.
Beech Grove residents oppose clemency for cop killer
Dozens of Beech Grove residents and nearby locals have submitted letters to the Indiana Parole Board and Governor Mike Braun urging them to deny Ritchie’s request for clemency.
[RELATED: Beech Grove residents oppose clemency for convicted cop killer]
“Granting clemency in this case would not show compassion—it would show disregard for the life of a slain officer,” wrote State Rep. Andrew Ireland (R-Indianapolis).
The Indiana Commons reached out to Coffman for a statement about the clemency hearing and has not received a response as of publication.
