Judge Jeffrey Ferguson Released on $2 Million Bail

A California judge accused of fatally shooting his wife has been released on $2 million bail.

At a Glance

Judge Jeffrey Ferguson is charged with murdering his wife, Sheryl Ferguson, in August 2023.
Ferguson pleaded not guilty, claiming the shooting was accidental.
He was released on $2 million bail after initially violating bail conditions.
Authorities found 47 weapons and over 26,000 rounds of ammunition at Ferguson’s home.
Despite being in custody, Ferguson continues to receive his $250,000 annual salary.

Judge Accused of Fatal Shooting

California Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Ferguson stands accused of a crime that has shocked the legal community and the public alike. In August 2023, Ferguson allegedly shot and killed his wife, Sheryl Ferguson, during an argument at their Anaheim Hills home. The incident, which occurred after the couple had been drinking at a restaurant, has led to murder charges against the judge.

According to prosecutors, the argument escalated when Sheryl Ferguson made a provocative comment. In response, Judge Ferguson allegedly retrieved a pistol from an ankle holster and fired the fatal shot. The couple’s son, Phillip Ferguson, witnessed the shooting and described it as an accident, attempting CPR on his mother and restraining his father.

California Judge Accused of Killing His Wife Is Released on $2 Million Bailhttps://t.co/JvqZ8rZWTq

— California Insider News (@CAInsiderNews) October 30, 2024

Bail Release and Legal Proceedings

Initially, Ferguson posted $1 million bail but was re-incarcerated for allegedly violating bail conditions by consuming alcohol. Subsequently, his bail was increased to $2 million, and he was released under stricter conditions. The judge’s next court date is scheduled for November 15, where he will face the charges brought against him.

Controversial Salary Continuation

In a development that has raised eyebrows, Ferguson continues to receive his annual salary of nearly $250,000 and $22,000 in benefits, despite being in custody. A spokesperson for California state courts confirmed, “Our records show that Judge Ferguson is still receiving his state monthly salary.” This is due to a California law that mandates judges facing criminal charges continue to be paid unless convicted.

Ferguson’s defense team maintains that the shooting was an accidental discharge and not premeditated. However, the prosecution’s case paints a different picture, citing the judge’s alleged intoxication and the presence of numerous weapons in his home.

Implications

Ferguson, who was sworn in as a Superior Court Judge in March 2015, has not presided over any cases since his arrest. His cases have been reassigned to another judge in Los Angeles due to conflict of interest concerns.

As the legal proceedings unfold, many are watching closely to see how the justice system handles one of its own. The case raises important questions about domestic violence, gun ownership, and the standards to which public officials are held. With Ferguson’s next court appearance approaching, the public and legal community alike await further developments in this tragic and controversial case.