New York City Man Sentenced After Shooting Alleged Burglar
A 67-year-old man from New York City has been handed a prison sentence following the fatal shooting of a career criminal who reportedly lunged at him in 2023. This outcome has sparked considerable outrage among many people.
Charles Fehner pleaded guilty to possessing a weapon, reaching a plea deal more than two years after he shot and killed Cody Gonzalez, who attempted to burglarize his home in Kew Gardens, Queens. According to reports, Fehner’s sentence amounts to four years in prison.
Fehner’s defense argues against the strict gun laws of the city, calling them “draconian” and suggesting they force citizens into impossible situations. His attorney noted that if the laws allowed citizens to exercise their constitutional rights effectively, Fehner would not be facing imprisonment today.
Despite the circumstances of the shooting—where Fehner claimed self-defense—the Queens District Attorney’s Office opted not to charge Gonzalez with any offenses. This decision followed Fehner’s account of an armed robbery wherein the alleged attacker initially appeared to wield a knife.
After the shooting, police found numerous firearms in Fehner’s home, leading to multiple weapon charges against him. His lawyer, Thomas Kenniff, indicated that although the plea deal was made to avoid a trial, the firearms charges could potentially carry a sentence of up to 25 years.
Many believe that Fehner’s actions in defending his home should be viewed positively. Kenniff referred to his client as a “hero” who ended up penalized for trying to protect himself in a city where lawful firearm possession is heavily restricted.
Support for Fehner extends beyond his legal troubles; he is also faced with the challenge of spending the holiday season away from his family. Fortunately, a judge allowed him to remain free until his sentencing date on January 14, enabling him to celebrate Christmas with his wife, despite objections from the prosecution.
In a closing statement, Kenniff expressed disappointment that the prosecution sought to remand Fehner before his sentencing. He articulated gratitude towards the judge for allowing this temporary reprieve during the holiday season.
