Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Darrion K. Finley, a 21-year-old Pensacola resident, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to charges related to the attempted murder of an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy during a December 2024 traffic stop. The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin, with Finley now facing a potential sentence of up to life imprisonment.
Incident Details
The incident unfolded on December 17, 2024, when Finley was driving a stolen vehicle in Pensacola. An Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputy attempted a traffic stop, leading to a vehicle pursuit when Finley accelerated to evade law enforcement.
The pursuit concluded when a Deputy Sheriff executed a precision immobilization technique (PIT) on the stolen vehicle. As the vehicles came to a stop, Finley fired a 9-millimeter round into the deputy’s vehicle before attempting to flee on foot.
Still armed with a Glock 9-millimeter pistol and a loaded extended magazine, Finley was apprehended after the deputy released a K9 partner. When Finley reportedly tried to run again, the deputy shot him. Finley survived his injuries and was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury.
Federal Charges and Prosecution
Finley pleaded guilty to three federal charges: Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Attempting to Kill an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy to Prevent Certain Communications, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
U.S. Attorney Heekin emphasized the daily threats faced by law enforcement, stating his office’s commitment to aggressively prosecuting violent offenders and supporting law enforcement partners.
The case is a collaborative effort involving the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office; the State Attorney’s Office; and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton are prosecuting the case.
Sentencing and Broader Context
Sentencing for Darrion K. Finley is scheduled for January 13, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell II. He faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
This prosecution aligns with Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative focused on combating violent crime, transnational criminal organizations, and illegal immigration.
Outlook
Finley’s guilty plea highlights the severe dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. His upcoming sentencing will determine the consequences for his violent actions against an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy.
