Tulsa Man Convicted of Shooting Police Officer
A federal jury has convicted John Terry Chatman, Jr., of shooting and wounding a Tulsa police officer at a local Quik Trip on July 3, 2018.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Chatman, 35, was found guilty of three federal counts, including being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, obstruction of justice by attempting to kill a witness, and carrying, using, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The jury deliberated for two hours before returning a guilty verdict.
Chatman’s sentencing is scheduled for April 30, 2019, where he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years up to life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for the felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition charge; a maximum penalty of 30 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for the obstruction of justice by attempting to kill a witness charge; and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine for the carrying, using, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charge.
Tulsa Police Sergeant Mike Parsons was struck by a bullet during the incident, but the challenge coin in his pocket deflected the bullet, potentially preventing more severe injuries.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case, with U.S. Attorney Trent Shores and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allen Litchfield and Mark Morgan prosecuting the case.
Chatman’s conviction comes as a result of the strong evidence presented by the prosecution, including footage from police body cameras that showed the incident unfold.
U.S. Attorney Trent Shores expressed satisfaction with the guilty verdict, stating, ‘Our case was strong, and our cause was just. Guilty on all counts was the right result. I am thankful to the jury for their service.’
Key Facts
- State: Oklahoma
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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