Former Sgt. Kevin Murray dodges jail time and sex offender registration with ‘slap on the wrist’ sentence

UKIAH, 8/31/22 — Former Ukiah Police Dept. Sgt Kevin Murray was sentenced to two years probation and 250 hours of community service Tuesday after taking a plea deal that dismissed multiple felony sexual assault charges. The deal allowed the ex-cop to dodge a public trial as well as the minimum 16-month jail term indicated on his plea form. Murray has been ordered to provide a DNA sample to the state and participate in the three-year Sex Offenders And Families in Effective Recovery (SAFER) program for at least one year, but he will not be required to register as a sex offender. 

Murray pleaded no contest July 7 to violating Penal Code 136.1 (b) 1, or dissuading a victim from reporting her sexual assault. His attorneys have stated in court briefs that Murray pleaded no contest based on an understanding with the court that no jail time would be imposed. P.C. 136.1 is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on circumstances. After serving out his sentence, Murray may be eligible to have the felony reduced to misdemeanor or expunge it entirely, meaning he could legally purchase firearms again or possibly return to work in law enforcement.