Demario Lamar Cotton, Assault on Federal Officer, Mississippi 2022

JACKSON, MS – Demario Lamar Cotton, 40, of Jackson, Mississippi, will spend the next two decades in federal prison after being sentenced for a brazen attack on federal law enforcement. Cotton opened fire with a rifle on pursuing officers during a vehicle chase in June 2021, leaving one officer injured.

The incident unfolded on or about June 26, 2021, when Cotton attempted to evade authorities. Instead of surrendering, court documents reveal he brought the chase to a halt and unleashed a volley of gunfire at the law enforcement vehicles, directly striking and injuring a federal officer performing their duties. The officer’s injuries were not detailed in the released statement, but were significant enough to warrant the severe sentence.

Cotton was swiftly apprehended and, facing overwhelming evidence, entered a guilty plea on July 1, 2022. He admitted to his actions, effectively ending any attempts to dispute the facts of the case. The 20-year sentence, handed down on November 2, 2022, in U.S. District Court in Jackson, sends a clear message about the consequences of targeting those sworn to uphold the law.

U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca for the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the FBI jointly announced the sentencing. The investigation was a collaborative effort, involving the FBI, Jackson Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The ATF’s involvement suggests the weapon used in the assault is also subject to federal firearms regulations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray successfully prosecuted the case, securing the lengthy prison term. The severity of the sentence underscores the federal government’s commitment to protecting its officers and holding accountable those who attempt to inflict harm upon them. Cotton’s actions demonstrated a clear disregard for both the law and the safety of those who enforce it.

While the details surrounding the initial reason for the pursuit remain scarce, the focus remains on Cotton’s violent response. The 20-year sentence should serve as a deterrent to others contemplating similar acts of aggression against law enforcement. The New Orleans Field Division of the FBI oversaw the investigation, ensuring a thorough examination of the facts.

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