October 5, 2021 - Moments before facing a jury, Michael Congdon pleaded guilty today to shooting a Fresno County Deputy Sheriff on July 2, 2019. After responding to a call for shots being fired at a water tank in Tollhouse, California. Fresno County Deputy Sheriff John Erickson, and his civilian ride-along, were fired upon by Congdon, who was armed with a semi-automatic rifle. Deputy Erickson was shot three times by Congdon; once in the back, and once in each leg. After being surrounded by officers from multiple assisting law enforcement agencies, Congdon gave himself up to authorities. During his subsequent interview, he admitted to shooting at a horse under his care as well as at Deputy Erickson.

Congdon pleaded to the following charges and admitted the following enhancements:

1. Attempted Murder [PC 664/187]: admitting to an enhancement for personally discharging a firearm and inflicting great bodily injury [PC 12022.53(d)].
2. Shooting at an Occupied Vehicle [PC 246]; admitting to an enhancement for personally using a firearm in the commission of a felony [PC 12022.5(a)].
3. Animal Cruelty [PC 597(a)]: admitting to an enhancement for personally using a firearm in the commission of a felony [PC 12022.5(a)].

Based on his plea, Michael Congdon faces a stipulated sentence of 50 years and 8 months to life in prison. Additionally, Congdon waived his right to appeal. Congdon is scheduled to be sentenced on November 5, 2021, in Department 54 of the Fresno County Superior Court.

This case was successfully prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney Kelly Smith.

Source: Fresno County Sheriff's Office