In a significant legal development, Robert Nelson has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for shooting an Arizona trooper. This case has drawn considerable attention following a violent encounter that took place on September 12, 2020.

The Shooting Incident

The harrowing incident began when New Mexico State Police Sgt. Sharron Duran pulled over Nelson for a traffic infraction near Laguna Pueblo. As Sgt. Duran approached the vehicle, Nelson opened fire, injuring her before fleeing the scene.

Amazingly, despite being injured, Sgt. Duran managed to pursue Nelson and conducted a felony stop on his vehicle, demonstrating remarkable bravery under pressure.

The Legal Fallout

Nelson’s sentence includes 20 years in federal prison with an additional 4 years of supervised release. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that he had pleaded guilty to attempted murder of a Federal Task Force Officer and discharging a firearm during a federal crime of violence. New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler lauded the complexities involved in securing a guilty verdict.

Every agency involved in this investigation spent countless hours and sleepless nights to make sure this case ended in a guilty verdict. It is a stark reminder that no traffic stop is routine, and the bravery shown by Sgt. Duran is of the highest degree, said Chief Weisler.

No Law Enforcement Officers Hurt During Arrest

Interestingly, another related incident occurred involving Ivory James Welch III who was involved in a triple homicide case against his mother and two sisters. Welch was apprehended and killed by troopers from the Arizona Department of Public Safety without any law enforcement officers being hurt.

The Community Reacts

The community and law enforcement officials have expressed relief over the resolution of these cases and particularly highlight that no further harm came to any officers during these volatile engagements.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) emphasized this point stating that No one in law enforcement was hurt, underscoring their ongoing commitment to keeping their personnel safe while carrying out their dangerous duties.