Cop Killer Gets Life In Prison
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Jury deliberations came to an end Monday in the penalty phase for admitted cop killer Rasheed Scruggs. The jury informed the judge they were deadlocked and as a result, Scruggs received life in prison with no parole.
Scruggs plead guilty in October to killing Officer John Pawlowski on February 13, 2009.
The prosecution sought the death penalty and the Pawlowski family wanted the death penalty believing Scruggs deserved it for his cold-blooded and cowardly act of firing a gun hidden in his pocket.
Widow Kim Pawlowski spoke to reporters as she exited the courthouse holding their son, little Johnnie, born a few months after his father was murdered.
"I am angry and frustrated and disappointed. Justice was not served. My husband is nine feet in the ground and he gets to breathe another breath of life," said Kim. "My son doesn't have a choice; he can't call his father on the phone."
Kim Pawlowski went on to voice her disappointment in the decision.
"They should throw out the death penalty out in Pennsylvania because it's pointless," Kim said. "I hope he spends the rest of his life tortured by what he did to Johnnie."
The trial judge acknowledged the Pawlowski's feeling, speaking directly to Kim telling her, "I pray for your peace, and I pray for your gorgeous little boy."
Scruggs' defense attorney spoke to reporters outside the courtroom.
"We're very grateful for the verdict that's handed down by the judge of life. At the same time, we mourn with the victim's family," David Rudenstein said.
Reported by Tony Hanson, KYW Newsradio; Robin Rieger, CBS 3
