BALCONES HEIGHTS, Texas — A man who shot Balcones Heights Sergeant Joey Sepulveda multiple times back in 2021 has been sentenced to 70 years in prison.
The shooting happened on Feb. 3, 2021 at a northwest-side apartment complex.
Kevin Lawrence, Executive Director with the Texas Municipal Police Association, calls the sentencing outstanding and says justice was served.
"He needs to spend at least the vast majority of the rest of his life in an environment, where he can't hurt our citizens anymore," said Lawrence.
Sergeant Joey Sepulveda went to the Sol Apartments off I-10 to investigate reports of vehicles being broken into. Police said he approached a truck with two people inside,and began talking with them. That's when Wilfredo Montemayor shot Sepulveda multiple times.
"This fellow pulled a gun, pointed it at him point blank range, and shot him in the face," said Lawrence.
Another officer was able to drag Sepulveda to safety. Authorities said Montemayor's brother Sijifredo Montemayor was also in the truck.
Within a week both of the brothers were arrested and charged with attempted capital murder of a police officer.
"These two individuals, they were both culpable there. They both should be held accountable for their actions," said Lawrence.
On Friday, Wilfredo Montemayor was sentenced to 70 years in prison. He will get credit for the time he has already served and will be eligible for parole after 30 years.
Lawrence said the trial for Sepulveda has been traumatic for him and his family.
"I was texting back and forth with him during the trial and could tell it was weighing on him, because like I say it's having to relive that event you know, over and over again," said Lawrence.
Lawrence said he hopes the 70 year sentence for Wilfredo sends a message.
"That this type of behavior will not be tolerated and that the people will be held accountable," said Lawrence.
Wilfredo's brother Sijifredo Montemayor is currently waiting for his day in court.