California Judge Accused of Murder Still Receives Full Salary

Judge Jeffrey Ferguson, charged with killing his wife, remains on payroll due to constitutional provisions despite being jailed.

Jeffrey Ferguson, a 74-year-old Orange County Superior Court Judge, is accused of fatally shooting his wife in August 2023.
Ferguson allegedly texted a confession to his court clerk and bailiff after the incident, stating, 'I just shot my wife.'
He was initially released on $1 million bail but was re-incarcerated for allegedly lying about alcohol consumption while awaiting trial.
The California Constitution allows judges facing felony charges to keep receiving their salary until a conviction is secured.
If convicted, Ferguson could face 40 years to life in prison for murder with firearm-related enhancements.