California Judge Jeffrey Ferguson Convicted of Murdering Wife

Jeffrey Ferguson, a former Orange County Superior Court judge, was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting his wife, Sheryl Ferguson, in their Anaheim Hills home following an argument in August 2023. The incident occurred after a night of drinking and a heated dispute at a restaurant, with prosecutors alleging Ferguson intentionally shot his wife after she challenged him at home. Ferguson, who claimed the shooting was accidental, was found to be heavily intoxicated at the time and later texted colleagues admitting to the act. During the trial, it was revealed that instead of assisting his wife immediately, Ferguson contacted his bailiff and clerk, stating he wouldn't be in court due to the shooting. He faces up to 40 years to life in prison, and his prior conduct on the bench, including possible intoxication during hearings, will now be reviewed. The case was moved to Los Angeles due to Ferguson's professional ties in Orange County.