(Patriot.Buzz) – What should have been a routine traffic stop turned into a tragedy as a police officer was brutally killed by a man and now he is sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.
Convicted felon 27-year-old New Mexico Dominic De La O received a life sentence after his conviction for the murder of Alamogordo police officer Anthony Ferguson in mid-July last year during a traffic stop in the city.
De La O was found guilty of first-degree murder, among other charges, including tampering with evidence and aggravated fleeing.
The incident unfolded when the criminal fled the scene of a traffic stop. After crashing into a light pole, he exited his vehicle armed with a sawed-off shotgun, which he fatally shot Officer Ferguson during a foot chase.
An 11-year veteran of the department, Officer Ferguson was committed to safeguarding his community. He succumbed to his injuries after being airlifted to the University Medical Center in El Paso.
“The conviction and sentencing of the person responsible for this senseless murder brings some measure of justice, but it will never replace the loss of Officer Ferguson,” Police Chief Troy Weisler.
Moreover, the determination to bring justice for Officer Ferguson was evident as District Attorney Scot D. Key, alongside his team, presented testimonies from 21 witnesses.
Jesse Grajeda, the Chief Administrative Officer of the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney’s Office, announced the sentencing.
Another individual associated with the tragedy, Jonah Apodaca, was sentenced to six years for providing the modified shotgun used in the murder.
“This tragic event has left an indelible mark on our law enforcement community, and our hearts continue to go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Tony Ferguson. His bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.” Weisler added.
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