Memphis, Tennessee, December 2, 2025

Patric J. Ferguson, a former Memphis police officer, has been sentenced to 38 years in prison for the on-duty murder of Robert Howard. Ferguson pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges, including civil rights violations and kidnapping, admitting to the premeditated crime. His actions have raised serious questions about accountability in law enforcement and have sparked community discussions on the need for reform.

Memphis, Tennessee

Former Memphis Police Officer Sentenced to 38 Years for On-Duty Murder

On December 1, 2025, Patric J. Ferguson, a former officer with the Memphis Police Department, was sentenced to 38 years in prison after pleading guilty to federal charges related to the fatal shooting of Robert Howard. Ferguson, 34, admitted to kidnapping and fatally shooting Howard on January 5, 2021, while on duty. He then conspired with co-defendant Joshua M. Rogers to conceal the crime by disposing of Howard’s body in the Wolf River in Memphis and later selling the vehicle used in the crime to a scrap metal company.

Ferguson faced multiple federal charges, including civil rights violations, firearms offenses, kidnapping, and obstruction. He pleaded guilty to five of the six charges, with the sixth charge being dismissed. The sentencing was announced by officials from the U.S. Department of Justice. The case has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the crime and Ferguson’s position as a law enforcement officer. Officials emphasized the severity of the offense, stating that Ferguson used his position to perpetrate a premeditated murder and attempted to shield himself from suspicion and liability.

Background and Implications

Ferguson was hired by the Memphis Police Department in 2018 after graduating from Shelby County Schools and obtaining a college degree. Notably, he had no prior history of criminal behavior before this incident. His case raises concerns about accountability within law enforcement agencies and highlights the imperative to uphold the law, regardless of one’s position.

Legal Charges and Sentencing

Ferguson’s guilty pleas covered serious offenses, which included civil rights violations, firearms offenses, kidnapping, and obstruction, with a significant sentence of 38 years reflecting the gravity of his actions. This case serves as a reminder of the critical importance of ethical behavior in law enforcement, which is vital for community trust.

Community Reactions

The sentence has likely sparked conversations among community members about law enforcement practices and the need for ongoing reforms to promote transparency and accountability. It highlights the significance of maintaining high standards within police departments, ensuring that public servants act with integrity and respect towards the communities they serve.

Key Features of the Case

Conclusion

The sentencing of Patric J. Ferguson not only serves as a suitable penalty for his actions but also emphasizes the need for accountability within law enforcement in Memphis and beyond. Community members can take this moment to reflect upon the standards they expect from public servants and advocate for conditions that ensure such incidents do not recur. By supporting local businesses and initiatives that contribute positively to Memphis’s economic future, residents can play a role in fostering an environment where ethical behavior and community safety are prioritized.