California Judge on Trial for Fatally Shooting Wife During Argument

Prosecutors allege Judge Jeffrey Ferguson intentionally shot his wife after a heated dispute, while the defense claims the shooting was accidental.

Jeffrey Ferguson, a 74-year-old Orange County Superior Court judge, is on trial for the August 2023 shooting death of his wife, Sheryl Ferguson, at their Anaheim Hills home.
Prosecutors argue Ferguson shot his wife with a Glock .40 pistol after she allegedly taunted him to 'use a real gun' during an argument about finances.
Ferguson, who had been drinking that evening, texted court staff immediately after the incident, admitting to the shooting and expressing regret.
The couple’s adult son, Phillip, who was present during the shooting, provided conflicting testimony about the timeline and events leading up to the gunfire.
The defense maintains the shooting was a tragic accident, with Ferguson’s lawyer emphasizing his intent to testify later in the trial.