Hello, I’m Enrique Latoison, a criminal defense attorney from Delaware County, and I welcome you to this edition of Commentary Creations, Your 3-Minute Lawyer.
In today’s discussion, we delve into the tragic murder of Officer Christopher Fitzgerald, an incident marking the first time a Temple police officer has been fatally attacked. As a Temple alumnus myself, this incident has a deep personal impact on me, as officers like Fitzgerald, fondly known as Fitz, have played a vital role in maintaining the safety of students like me during my law school years. Before we begin, I’d like to express my deepest condolences to his family. Fitzgerald was known as a devoted husband, father, and was greatly loved by his family.
Our focus today will be on the charges faced by the accused, Miles Pfeffer (or Pepper, based on pronunciation), and what these charges signify. We’ll also explore potential charges against other individuals implicated in the incident.
According to reports, Pfeffer, along with his brother and another suspect, allegedly conducted a series of robberies around the Temple area. Upon receiving this information, Officer Fitzgerald attempted to intervene, which led to a fatal encounter with these individuals. Two suspects fled the scene, leaving Pfeffer to face Fitzgerald.
Based on this scenario, the other two suspects could face conspiracy charges, among others. In a previous video, I discussed conspiracy laws. In brief, if three individuals agree to commit a crime, and one of them deviates and commits another crime, the other two can still be held criminally responsible for the agreed crime. In this case, they could face charges for attempted robbery or even complicity in Fitzgerald’s murder.
There have also been reports that Pfeffer’s mother picked him up from a location after he allegedly carjacked another individual. Depending on her knowledge and actions at the time, she could face charges, such as accessory after the fact. There are also allegations that Pfeffer attempted to destroy evidence at his home, which could potentially implicate his mother.
Regarding Pfeffer’s charges, first-degree murder could result in life imprisonment without parole in Pennsylvania. The state has a tiered sentencing system with mitigated, standard, and aggravated ranges. Given the severity of Pfeffer’s alleged actions, it is likely he would face the aggravated range, though for first-degree murder, there isn’t a range greater than life imprisonment without parole.
As we close this discussion, I’d like to highlight that Barstool Sports is selling shirts, with 100% of the proceeds going to support Officer Fitzgerald’s family. I will be contributing to this cause, and I urge others to do the same.
Thank you for tuning into this current news edition video. I’m Enrique Latoison, your t-minute lawyer.
