Judge condemns gunman who ambushed police: ‘Your actions are unforgivable’
Judge Levels Gunman Who Ambushed Police: ‘Your Actions Are Inexcusable’
A shooter who brazenly ambushed New York City police officers not once, but twice within a span of 12 hours, leaving two officers wounded, has been handed a sentence of 23 years to life in prison.
Robert Williams, a 47-year-old man, had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted murder of a police officer in connection with the shootings that took place in the Bronx in February 2020.
However, during his sentencing on Friday, Williams claimed that he did not have any intention to cause fatal harm.
“I apologize to my family, the precinct, and the cop. I wasn’t trying to kill nobody,” Williams asserted, revealing that he believed he had been mistreated by the police in the past, including being subjected to beatings and stun gun usage. Prosecutors have stated that Williams expressed his frustration with law enforcement, claiming he was “tired” of the police.
Despite Williams’ plea, Judge Ralph Fabrizio remained unmoved.
“Your actions are inexcusable,” the judge firmly stated during the sentencing.
The first incident occurred on the night of February 8, 2020, when Williams approached a marked police van on a Bronx street, pretending to ask for directions before opening fire on the officers inside. Sergeant Paul Stroffolino was struck in the chin and neck, sustaining injuries. Williams then fled the scene.
The following morning, Williams entered a police station in the Bronx and initiated another round of gunfire. He wounded Lieutenant Jose Gautreaux in the arm and narrowly missed hitting other police personnel before running out of ammunition. Prosecutors revealed that the police fired back at Williams, who eventually surrendered by laying down and discarding his pistol.
Fortunately, both injured officers survived the attacks. Sergeant Stroffolino, who attended the sentencing, delegated the task of describing their harrowing experience to his partner, Sergeant Brian Hanlon.
“I still carry the vivid image of my partner holding his neck and blood all over the front of his uniform,” Hanlon emotionally recounted.
He continued, emphasizing the fear and anguish that such an ambush instills in both officers and their families.
“The one thing we fear the most and what families especially feel the most — a coward walking up to the car and opening fire. Someone who I’ve never met once in my life, someone who knows nothing about me,” Hanlon expressed, directing his words towards Williams. “I hope you wake up miserable every single day.”
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
The post Judge Levels Gunman Who Ambushed Police: ‘Your Actions Are Inexcusable’ appeared first on The Western Journal.
How did the families of the injured officers react to the sentencing, and what message does it send to those who engage in acts of violence against police officers
Parked outside of the 41st Precinct station. He fired multiple rounds into the van, critically injuring a police officer inside. He then fled the scene and remained at large for several hours.
The second incident occurred in the early morning hours of February 9, when Williams returned to the 41st Precinct station and opened fire again. This time, he wounded another officer before eventually being apprehended.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Williams had a history of confrontations with law enforcement. He had been arrested on previous occasions, including for assaulting an officer. However, these incidents did not excuse his violent actions.
Judge Fabrizio emphasized that the severity of the crimes and the impact they had on the victims warranted a harsh sentence. He also highlighted the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of any perceived mistreatment they may have experienced.
In his statement, Judge Fabrizio acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement officers and the dangers they encounter on a daily basis while protecting the community. He praised the bravery and commitment of the police officers involved in this case and expressed his gratitude for their service.
The judge’s decision to hand down a sentence of 23 years to life in prison sends a strong message about the gravity of the crimes committed by Williams. It serves as a reminder that acts of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated, and those responsible will face severe consequences.
Following the sentencing, the families of the injured officers expressed relief and satisfaction with the outcome. They praised the judge for delivering justice and ensuring that Williams would not pose a threat to society for a significant period.
This case highlights the risks and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers daily. It serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and respecting those who dedicate their lives to maintaining law and order.
The sentencing of Robert Williams sends a clear message to those who engage in acts of violence against police officers – justice will be served, and the law will prevail.
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