As reported by Cleveland 19 News, nearly five decades after Detective William Prochazka of Bedford Heights was killed in the line of duty, his family continues to fight to keep his convicted killers behind bars. In November 1975, Prochazka was shot in the neck while delivering mug shots to businesses in Southgate Shopping Center. The shooter was one of four individuals involved in a robbery. Prochazka did not survive the attack.
His granddaughter, Jessica Riley, and his youngest son, Brian Prochazka, have spoken out about the emotional toll the loss continues to take on their family. At just six years old, Brian lost his father, while Jessica, born after the tragedy, is now older than her grandfather was when he died.
The family has repeatedly testified before parole boards, opposing the release of the men responsible. Originally sentenced to death, the offenders had their punishments reduced due to changes in Ohio’s death penalty laws. One of the four—who served as the getaway driver—has already been released. The remaining three are now eligible for parole.
The Prochazka family remains steadfast in their belief that those responsible should remain incarcerated. No parole hearings have been scheduled yet for the remaining men.
