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Wesley Shifflett, 36, was sentenced on Friday, Feb. 28, after being convicted of reckless firearm handling in the 2023 death of 37-year-old Timothy Johnson, according to Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano.
The shooting happened on Feb. 23, 2023, when Johnson was killed outside Tysons Corner Center Mall following a shoplifting incident and subsequent pursuit that ended with shots fired and the suspect down.
“This case is, and always has been, about (Johnson), his unnecessary death, and his family’s grief,” Descano said.
“The person who was responsible for this tragedy has been held accountable.
"I hope that today’s hearing, and the conclusion of this case, brings the Johnson family a step closer on their path to healing.”
Shifflett received five years in prison, with two years suspended, followed by five years of probation, officials said.
"Trust in policing is essential to community safety. When tragedies like this occur, trust can only be repaired by seeking accountability through the justice system. Failing to do so would make the work of our police force—who are as dedicated to community safety as I am—that much harder," Descano added
Shifflett retains the right to appeal the conviction, prosecutors noted.
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