Memphis, Tennessee, December 19, 2025
A Memphis man, Joshua M. Rogers, has been sentenced to 56 months in federal prison for helping a former police officer conceal the murder of Robert Howard. The crime involved aiding in the disposal of Howard’s body after he was kidnapped and fatally shot by then-officer Patric J. Ferguson. This case highlights critical accountability issues within law enforcement. Rogers’ co-defendant Ferguson received a 38-year sentence for his involvement in the crime, marking a significant legal action against misconduct among police officers.
Memphis Man Sentenced for Aiding Ex-MPD Officer in Murder
Memphis, Tennessee – A Memphis man has been sentenced to 56 months in federal prison for his role in assisting a former Memphis Police Department (MPD) officer in concealing a murder. Joshua M. Rogers, 33, was convicted of destroying evidence related to the fatal shooting of Robert Howard on January 5, 2021.
Details of the Crime
According to court documents, Rogers aided his co-defendant, Patric J. Ferguson, a then-on-duty MPD officer, after Ferguson kidnapped and fatally shot Howard. Rogers helped Ferguson purchase chains, padlocks, and cinderblocks, which were used to weigh down Howard’s body. The two men then transported the body to the Wolf River in Memphis, where it was disposed of.
Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
Rogers’ sentencing follows the earlier conviction and sentencing of Ferguson, who received a 38-year prison term on December 1, 2025, for civil rights violations, firearms offenses, kidnapping, and murder. Ferguson’s actions were described as a betrayal of public trust and a violation of the oath to serve and protect the community.
Background Context
The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of an active-duty police officer in a serious criminal offense. The sentencing of both Ferguson and Rogers underscores the justice system’s commitment to holding law enforcement officers accountable for their actions, regardless of their position within the department.
Related Cases
This case is part of a broader pattern of legal actions against law enforcement officers involved in criminal activities. For instance, former Minneapolis police officer J. Alexander Kueng was sentenced to 42 months on a state charge of aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter in the death of George Floyd. Similarly, former Crime Intelligence officer Thulani Obed Thango was sentenced to three years in prison for assisting an ANC councillor in evading arrest for murder.
Conclusion
The convictions and sentences in these cases highlight the ongoing efforts to ensure accountability within law enforcement agencies and reinforce the principle that no one is above the law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Joshua M. Rogers convicted of?
Joshua M. Rogers was convicted of destroying evidence related to the fatal shooting of Robert Howard on January 5, 2021.
What was the sentence for Joshua M. Rogers?
Rogers was sentenced to 56 months in federal prison for his role in the crime.
What was the role of Patric J. Ferguson in the crime?
Patric J. Ferguson, a former MPD officer, kidnapped and fatally shot Robert Howard, and enlisted Rogers’ help to conceal the murder.
What was the sentence for Patric J. Ferguson?
Ferguson was sentenced to 38 years in prison on December 1, 2025, for civil rights violations, firearms offenses, kidnapping, and murder.
Are there other similar cases involving law enforcement officers?
Yes, there have been other cases, such as the sentencing of former Minneapolis police officer J. Alexander Kueng for aiding and abetting manslaughter in the death of George Floyd, and former Crime Intelligence officer Thulani Obed Thango for assisting an ANC councillor in evading arrest for murder.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Conviction | Joshua M. Rogers convicted of destroying evidence related to Robert Howard’s murder. |
| Sentence | 56 months in federal prison for Rogers; 38 years in prison for Ferguson. |
| Involvement | Rogers assisted former MPD officer Patric J. Ferguson in concealing the murder of Robert Howard. |
| Related Cases | Similar cases include the sentencing of former Minneapolis police officer J. Alexander Kueng and former Crime Intelligence officer Thulani Obed Thango. |
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