Jury at an Impasse over Orange County Judge Accused of Killing Wife
Deadlocked over Second-Degree Murder Charge
A jury announced Monday afternoon that they are at an impasse in the trial of an Orange County judge who is accused of fatally shooting his wife at the family’s home in 2023.
Accused Judge’s Defense
Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Ferguson, 74, has not denied shooting his wife, but claims the gun went off accidentally.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutors say Ferguson had been drinking heavily and arguing with his wife, Sheryl, when he pulled a pistol from his ankle holster and shot her in the chest on August 3.
Impasse over Second-Degree Murder Charge
The jury’s impasse is over the second-degree murder charge that Ferguson faces, which, if found guilty, could result in a sentence of 15 years to life.
Gun Enhancements
In addition, Ferguson also faces gun enhancements that, if found guilty, could increase his sentence to a maximum of 40 years to life.
Judge’s Instructions
On Monday, L.A. County Superior Court Judge Eleanor J. Hunter instructed the jury they can consider the lesser Involuntary manslaughter charge – but, they can only do that if they first reach a not-guilty verdict on the second-degree murder charge.
Closing Arguments
Yost reported that Judge Hunter told the attorneys that she might allow each of them to deliver ten more minutes of closing arguments to the jury if she thinks that will help break the stalemate. This would be a rare move, but it has happened on occasion.
Judge’s Ruling
Cameron Talley, Ferguson’s defense attorney, was a prosecutor for 22 years and has been a defense attorney for the last 10 years. He told KTLA that it would be the first time in his career that a judge instructed the attorneys to give additional closing arguments after the jury has already started deliberating.
Jury Deliberations Continue
However, after speaking with the jury on Monday, Judge Hunter determined that they might still be able to come to a decision after another night.
What’s Next?
The jury was ordered to return to court at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.
FAQs
* What is the charge against Judge Ferguson?
+ Second-degree murder and gun enhancements
* What is the potential sentence if found guilty?
+ 15 years to life for second-degree murder, 40 years to life with gun enhancements
* What is the judge’s claim in his defense?
+ That the gun went off accidentally
* What is the prosecution’s case?
+ That Judge Ferguson shot his wife after a night of heavy drinking and arguing
