Line of Duty Death: Detective James M. Skernivitz
Detective James M. Skernivitz
Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio
End of Watch Thursday, September 3, 2020
BIO
Age 53
Tour 25 years
Badge 2249
INCIDENT DETAILS
Cause Gunfire
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender In custody
Detective James Skernivitz was shot and killed at about 10:00 pm in the area of West 65th Street and Storer Avenue while working in an undercover capacity as part of a federal task force supporting Operation Legend.
An informant who was with Detective Skernivitz was also killed when one or more subjects opened fire on them while they were inside of Detective Skernivitz’s vehicle. Two juveniles and an adult were taken into custody for questioning about their murders.
Detective Skernivitz had served with the Cleveland Division of Police for 25 years. He was assigned to the Gang Impact Unit and the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Please contact the following agency to send condolences or to obtain funeral arrangements:
Chief of Police Calvin D. Williams
Cleveland Division of Police
1300 Ontario Street
Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone: (216) 623-5000
