Judge Jeffrey Ferguson fatally shoots his wife during argument

In August 2023, a Southern California judge named Jeffrey Ferguson was involved in a tragic incident resulting in the death of his wife, Sheryl Ferguson. The couple had been arguing about family finances after having dinner at a Mexican restaurant. Following their heated discussion, they returned home to continue watching television alongside their adult son, Phillip. During the argument at home, Ferguson, who had been drinking, retrieved a firearm from his ankle holster and fatally shot Sheryl. After the shooting, Ferguson and his son immediately called 911, and Ferguson sent messages expressing his regret for the incident. Amidst the public outcry surrounding the case, evidence revealed that after his arrest, authorities confiscated 47 weapons and over 26,000 rounds of ammunition from Ferguson's residence. The situation elicited considerable concern and disbelief across the legal community in Orange County, where Ferguson had established a lengthy career in law, holding various roles including that of a criminal prosecutor and, more recently, a judge since 2015. To prevent conflicts of interest in the judicial process, the trial was presided over by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Eleanor J. Hunter. The case, replete with emotional complexities and public interest, eventually culminated in Ferguson being convicted of second-degree murder in April and facing sentencing in September 2025. The impact of this incident reverberated throughout the community and prompted discussions around the responsibilities and actions of those who hold positions of authority. It also raised questions about the potential consequences of personal struggles and the ramifications they can have on others, especially family members who are often most affected. As the legal proceedings unfold, the remnants of Ferguson's actions linger as a somber reminder of the blurred lines between the personal and professional lives of individuals in similar roles.