Scottsdale man accused of shooting NM officer, could be sentenced to life
Sep 18, 2020, 11:15 AM
Robert Benjamin Nelson (New Mexico Department of Public Safety Photo)
(New Mexico Department of Public Safety Photo)
PHOENIX – A Scottsdale man faces up to life in prison after being arrested for allegedly shooting at a state police officer in New Mexico, according to the FBI.
Robert Benjamin Nelson, 28, made his first appearance in federal court in Albuquerque on Thursday, the FBI said in a press release.
Nelson is accused of firing at the officer through the passenger-side window during a stop Saturday.
The officer, who was working on a federal task force, suffered hand, face and eye injuries, according to the release.
Nelson allegedly fled the scene on Interstate 40, but the officer pursued him despite her injuries, according to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety.
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The suspect exited the freeway after a short chase and was apprehended with help from police from the community of Laguna, west of Albuquerque, the department said.
He faces federal charges of attempted murder of a federal agent, which carries a sentence up to 20 years in prison, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, which is punishable by 10 years to life, the FBI said.
He also was booked on state charges of attempt to commit murder, aggravated battery upon a peace officer, shooting from a motor vehicle and resisting/evading/obstructing an officer.
