3 sources·Politics

California Judge Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in Wife's Shooting

Orange County Judge Jeffrey Ferguson, 74, found guilty of second-degree murder for the 2023 fatal shooting of his wife during a domestic argument.

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  1. The Guardian
  2. NBC News
  3. Associated Press

Updated: Apr 22nd, 2025, 10:32 PM ET

Summary

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Jaime Ferguson, a 74-year-old judge in Orange County, was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting his wife during an argument at home. The jury, which reached its decision after a previous mistrial, found that Ferguson shot his wife, Sheryl, while under the influence of alcohol. Ferguson claimed the shooting was accidental while prosecutors argued it was not, given his experience with firearms. He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years to life as an emotional case unfolds in the community, prompting further review of his past judicial decisions.


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  • Judge Jeffrey Ferguson was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting his wife during an argument, with jurors determining it was not an accident despite his claims.

  • The emotional case has impacted the local legal community, with the prosecutor highlighting the personal ties to the Ferguson family and the need to review Ferguson's previous rulings due to his alleged intoxication during court.

  • Ferguson's defense is planning to appeal the verdict, asserting their belief in his innocence despite the jury's decision.


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