Man who killed Fla. deputy during traffic stop sentenced to death

By Joanna Putman
Police1

NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. — A man who was convicted of shooting and killing Nassau County Deputy Joshua Moyers during a traffic stop nearly three years ago has been sentenced to death, News4Jax reported.

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In April, the jury voted 11 to 1 to recommend a death sentence for Patrick McDowell, according to the report. On July 17, a judge sentenced McDowell to death.

McDowell, who pleaded guilty to the 2021 murder of Moyers, encouraged jurors to recommend the death penalty during his sentencing trial.

“I can’t take away the pain I’ve caused, but I can pay for it. So make me pay for it,” McDowell told the jurors.

Moyers was conducting a traffic stop when the driver, identified as McDowell, shot Moyers in the face and back, Sheriff Bill Leeper said. A second deputy found Moyers wounded on the ground.

McDowell was captured following a five-day manhunt.

“We thank the jury for their time and diligent attention to this most important matter. Their recommendation recognizes Josh’s service in life as well as the cold and calculated manner of his death. Josh’s family, fiancée, friends, and fellow officers have suffered immense pain from his senseless murder. I hope today’s end of the penalty trial may begin the healing they deserve,” State Attorney Melissa Nelson said.