Downey joined the Central Intelligence Agency after graduating from Yale University in 1951. While on a CIA mission over China in November 1952, his plane was shot down and he was captured. He subsequently spent the next 20 years in Chinese prisons as a Cold War prisoner, becoming the longest held captive in American history.
Downey was appointed to the bench in 1987 by Gov. William A. O’Neill, and he became Chief Administrative Judge for Juvenile Matters in 1990. He served in that capacity until 1997, when he was elected to take senior status.
“Judge Downey was a remarkable man who not only served this state’s judicial system with distinction, but also served his country with honor, risking his life and enduring two decades of hardship as a Cold War prisoner in China,” Malloy said in a statement. “He has a clear reputation in Connecticut as a caring and compassionate leader, who to this day continues to be a role model for so many in our state. He is leaving a lasting legacy in Connecticut. I join his family and friends, including his wife Audrey and his son Jack, and all those who served alongside him in celebrating his remarkable life and honoring his memory.”
Flags will remain at half-staff until services for Downey are held, the date of which has not yet been determined.
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