Former Fairfax County police sergeant Wesley Shifflett has been granted clemency by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, just days after being sentenced to three years for the shooting death of Timothy McCree Johnson. While Shifflett's felony conviction for reckless handling of a firearm remains, he has been released from prison. The governor justified his decision by citing the perceived injustice of the sentence, especially given Shifflett's acquittal on the more serious charge of involuntary manslaughter. Youngkin highlighted the sentencing guidelines for involuntary manslaughter, which recommend minimal or no jail time, and contrasted it with the court's rejection of the probation officer's recommendation. He emphasized Shifflett's clean record and prior exemplary service as a police officer.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Johnson's mother and Fairfax County Commonwealth Attorney Steve Descano. Melissa Johnson expressed her anguish, questioning the disregard for the jury's verdict and suggesting potential bias due to her son's race or the circumstances of the incident. Descano accused the governor of undue interference in the justice system and of taking sides with a "White officer convicted of a crime that resulted in a Black man's death." He further condemned Youngkin's actions as undermining a fair and impartial judicial process.
The case stems from a February 2023 incident where Shifflett shot Johnson following a foot chase outside Tysons Corner Center. Police were responding to a shoplifting report. Shifflett claimed self-defense, stating he believed Johnson was reaching for a weapon. Body camera footage captured the moments leading up to the shooting, with Shifflett yelling commands before firing. Johnson can be heard denying having anything in his possession. The incident has sparked debate and raised questions about the use of force by law enforcement. Melissa Robey, of the police advocacy group We Black Blue, revealed her involvement in connecting Shifflett's family with his attorneys, who subsequently sought clemency from the governor. She defended the need to support law enforcement officers who face difficult situations in the line of duty.
