Trooper Ryan Londregan makes 1st court appearance in Ricky Cobb II's killing
MINNEAPOLIS — A Minnesota state trooper appeared in court Monday to face charges for shooting and killing a man last July.
Trooper Ryan Londregan shot 33-year-old Ricky Cobb II during a traffic stop on Interstate 94 in Minneapolis. Londregan opened fire after Cobb refused to get out of his vehicle and began driving away.
Last week, the Hennepin County Attorney charged Londregan with second-degree unintentional murder, assault and manslaughter.
Before Londregan even entered the Public Safety Facility, about 100 law enforcement officers stood outside to show their support.
They, along with friends and family of Cobb, then filled the courtroom.
During a five-minute proceeding, Londregan and his attorneys agreed that he would remain law-abiding, make court appearances, not carry firearms and not have any contact with Cobb's family or witnesses. He was also asked to turn over his passport.
"I really want to thank everyone here for this great showing of support for Trooper Ryan. And it means the world," said Chris Madel, attorney for Londregan.
After the court appearance, Londregan stood outside with his wife and officers. In front of the crowd, Madel questioned Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty's decision to charge the trooper, without first consulting with a use-of-force expert. Something, he said she originally agreed to do.
"Standing behind me is about a 100 current and former police officers. Here's a bunch of use-of-force experts. All she needs to do is email me and I'll hook her up with one," said Madel.
During a press conference last week, Moriarty said the charges came down to training and that officers are not allowed to shoot at a person or vehicle that's driving away.
An attorney for Cobb's family released a statement Monday regarding the body camera video.
"No one tried to de-escalate the situation. No one tried to protect his life. Trooper Ryan Londregan pulled the trigger, but he's not the only one responsible for Ricky Cobb's death," the attorney said.
Londregan's next court appearance is scheduled for April 29.
If convicted, Londregan could face up to 40 years in prison on the murder charge.