United States of America
Headstone of James Joshua Cowart

James Joshua Cowart

Died December 7, 1931

James Joshua Cowart.

How He Died
Manner Homicide
Cause Gunshot wound
Mechanism Firearm
What Happened

Sergeant James Cowart was shot and killed by a former deputy sheriff he had arrested five years earlier. He was at home when the subject knocked on his door at 6:30 a.m. When he answered it, the subject, standing in the yard, fired multiple shots through the glass-enclosed porch, striking Sergeant Cowart in the stomach. Arriving officers found the subject fatally wounded after his shotgun accidentally discharged as he attempted to dismantle it. Sergeant Cowart had served with the Des Moines Police Department for nine years.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Media
James Joshua Cowart
James Joshua Cowart 0 views
Service Record
Also Served
Des Moines Police Department
Sergeant
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 32W · Line 9 cut as JAMES JOSHUA COWART
In Our Keeping
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Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Sergeant Cowart gave the Des Moines Police Department 9 years.

Thank you for your service to the Des Moines community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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