Jury selection began Monday for the retrial of Orange County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Ferguson, who is accused of second-degree murder in the 2023 shooting death of his wife, Sheryl, at their Anaheim Hills home. The previous trial ended in a mistrial last month, with jurors deadlocked 11-1 in favor of a guilty verdict.
Ferguson, 74, was charged with murder, with enhancements for discharging a gun causing death and personal use of a firearm. He claims the shooting was accidental, stating he was removing the gun from an ankle holster when it went off. The incident occurred after the couple argued over family finances and returned home to watch “Breaking Bad” with their son, Phillip.
The case has drawn significant attention in the Orange County legal community. Prosecutors argue Ferguson’s extensive firearms experience contradicts his claim of an accidental shooting. They also noted that Ferguson texted his court clerk immediately after the incident, admitting to the shooting.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the importance of retrying the case, stating, “She died in cold blood, and we’re going to get justice to the best of our ability.” Meanwhile, Sheryl Ferguson’s brother, Larry Rosen, expressed doubt over the murder charge, suggesting the shooting was accidental and advocating for a plea deal.
As the retrial proceeds, Ferguson remains out of the courtroom, as the California Constitution prohibits judges facing felony charges from presiding over cases. He was previously admonished by the Commission on Judicial Performance in 2017 for social media conduct.
Recent Comments