Remembering a man who protected our communities and led many other officers to do the same – Deputy Kenneth Maltby – Eastland County Sheriff’s Office, Texas

End of Watch Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Captain Maltby

Ken H. Maltby was killed in the line of duty on September 7, 2016, while serving the County of Eastland, Texas as a Deputy for the Sheriff’s Department. His legacy lives on, and he touched many lives, including that of Lisa Ramsey, Fort Worth Police Officer and regular Heroes on the Water participant.

“Captain Maltby gave me my start,” says Lisa. “He mentored me, believing in me and guiding me in his role as a narcotics commander.”

A native of Texas, Maltby served with departments in the cities of Dallas and Stephenville, as well as in Comanche and Eastland counties. He started his career in the 1970’s as a criminal intelligence officer with the Dallas Police Department.

Maltby became Captain of the Stephenville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and patrol operations in the early 1980’s. He also supervised a multi-county narcotics task force during a time that the drug trade was very heavy, particularly in the rural areas the task force patrolled due to the large number of drug labs.

Known for his no-nonsense style, Maltby did things by the book, making sure his officers were well-trained and held to high professional standards.

“He was instrumental in making me the officer I am today,” says Lisa. “He was tough but had a good sense of humor. We all relied on him and knew he would be there for us. He was a true leader.”

Leaders Create Leaders

Officer Lisa Ramsey

Lisa is a reflection of Captain Maltby, so we know he was an amazing man. Shot in the line of duty during a narcotics arrest, Lisa sustained such severe injuries at one point she was pronounced dead. She rallied from death, a coma and extensive rehab to find her life changed forever. The bullet hit her spine, putting her permanently in a wheelchair. But that did not dampen her spirit.

Lisa attends HOW events as frequently as possible. She enjoys that it’s good, clean fun. Most of all, she appreciates the camaraderie with people who can relate to her. In her words, Heroes on the Water is a first-class group. You can learn more about Lisa and her experiences by watching her video.

Our Gratitude to The Fallen

May 15th is Peace Officers Memorial Day. Please join us in taking a moment to remember Captain Maltby and all the other fallen peace officers who protected our communities. We owe a debt of gratitude to these brave men and women. You are forever in our hearts and minds.