Ariz. Cop-Killer Gets Plea Deal in 2010 Slaying

Aug. 28, 2017
An Arizona cop-killer will serve 22 more years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the slaying of Chandler Police Detective Carlos Ledesma.

An Arizona cop-killer will serve 22 more years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the slaying of a police detective seven years ago.

Chandler Police Detective Carlos Ledesma was part of a team involved in an undercover drug operation gone wrong in south Phoenix on July 28, 2010, according to The Arizona Republic.

Ledesma and two of the suspects were shot dead in the violent encounter.

Doarnell Jackson's second-degree murder and aggravated assault plea carried 22- and eight-year sentences, but Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Brad Astrowsky credited him with the seven years and 29 days already served since he was arrested after the detective's murder.

During the court hearing, officials did not explain why the case dragged out so long and co-workers and family members of Ledesma expressed disappointment in the plea deal.

"30 years is not enough," Detective Ledesma's widow, Sherry, told the judge.

Jackson took a moment before his sentencing to address those on the victim's side of the courtroom, saying he's remorseful for his actions.

"I just want to let this court know there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about this," he said. "I am sorry for the role that I played. I wish I could take the pain away. I can't, but I am sorry for my actions.".

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