A Memphis police officer is facing kidnapping and murder charges for allegedly shooting a man while he was on duty. Patric Ferguson, 29, is accused of forcing the victim, Robert Howard, 30, into his squad car at gunpoint outside of his home. He then drove him down the street and shot him.
Howard's girlfriend reported him missing and was able to track his cellphone, which she found on the side of the road.
Investigators said that the shooting was captured on surveillance cameras and that Ferguson used his phone to search for information about cleaning up a crime scene and destroying DNA evidence. They also discovered that he purchased cinder blocks, chains, and other items used to dispose of the body, which was located near a bridge.
Authorities said that Ferguson knew Howard but have not released a motive for the killing.
"No one is above the law. Knowing that a Memphis Police Officer, someone who took an oath to protect and serve, made the decision to commit this horrific crime is devastating. His actions were not that of a law enforcement officer and should not reflect on fellow officers," said Memphis Police Department Director Michael Rallings.
Authorities also charged Joshua Rogers, 28, for allegedly helping Ferguson dispose of the body and other evidence.
Photo: Memphis Police Department