NORFOLK, Va. — Kendall Deshawn Murphy, 31, pleaded guilty this week to multiple charges, including felony assault on a law enforcement officer and attempting to disarm an officer, after a shoplifting incident escalated into a struggle with police in May. Murphy also admitted guilt on charges of misdemeanor larceny and destruction of property.
The incident took place on May 6 at the Dollar General on Chesapeake Boulevard, where Murphy was seen concealing items in his coat. When Officer Joshua Jacob arrived to arrest him, Murphy resisted, pushing the officer and attempting to flee. Officer Jacob chased Murphy to the parking lot, where a struggle ensued, during which Murphy struck the officer twice, damaging his glasses, and attempted to grab the officer’s holstered gun.
Without backup immediately available, Officer Jacob struggled alone until a second officer happened upon the scene and assisted in detaining Murphy. As a result of his actions, Murphy faced several charges, ultimately agreeing to plead guilty to the most serious offenses. Under the plea deal, the Commonwealth dismissed additional charges, and Murphy could face up to three years and eight months in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for January 10, 2025.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi commented on the case, saying, “Mr. Murphy engaged in extremely dangerous conduct, and I am relieved that the officer in this case was not badly hurt. Had Mr. Murphy cooperated with the officer, everyone would have been better off. He did not, and his sentence will reflect his choice.”