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Clay County Judge Sentences Joshua Rocha to Death in Killing of NKC Officer Daniel Vasquez

The ruling follows a St. Charles County jury’s death recommendation after an October murder conviction.

Overview

  • The judge ordered death by lethal injection on Monday, adopting the jury’s recommendation.
  • Rocha was convicted of first-degree murder for shooting Officer Daniel Vasquez during a July 2022 traffic stop.
  • A defense motion seeking a new trial or a life sentence was denied, according to court records.
  • In court, Rocha read a letter accepting full responsibility and saying he hoped the officer’s loved ones felt justice was served.
  • The jury that recommended death was composed of citizens from St. Charles County, Missouri.