Robert Williams, 47, who ambushed and wounded two New York City police officers within a span of 12 hours in February 2020, has been sentenced to 23 years to life. Last month, Williams pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted murder of a police officer for the incidents that occurred in the Bronx.
During his sentencing, Williams expressed regret but stated he had no intention of killing. He mentioned past alleged encounters with the police where he claimed to have been beaten and tased. He indicated fatigue with police actions as a reason for his violent outburst. However, Bronx Judge Ralph Fabrizio remained unswayed, declaring Williams’ actions “inexcusable.”
The first attack took place on the night of Feb. 8, 2020, when Williams approached a police van, inquired for directions, and then shot at the officers, injuring Sgt. Paul Stroffolino. The following morning, Williams opened fire in a Bronx police station, wounding Lt. Jose Gautreaux and narrowly missing others. He was eventually subdued after running out of ammunition.
Sgt. Brian Hanlon, Stroffolino’s partner, recounted the traumatic experience during the sentencing, voicing his hope that Williams would wake up “miserable every single day.”
