Former University of Arizona graduate student, Murad Dervish, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder of a professor on campus in 2022. 48-year-old Dervish was found guilty of first-degree murder after he shot Thomas Meixner in October. Dervish was also found guilty of other charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, and endangerment.
During the sentencing, Meixner’s family spoke about their grief and loss, requesting life without parole for Dervish. The university also expressed the impact of Meixner’s loss on their community.
Dervish apologized to Meixner’s family but claimed the trial was unfair, stating he had yet to have a fair and impartial trial. He said that he felt pushed to speak up after being repeatedly referred to as a monster.
Documents revealed that Dervish had a history of threatening and harassing staff members before the shooting. His behavior was well-known among the department and law enforcement, with Dervish being prohibited from stepping foot on university property before his expulsion.
After the sentencing, the Pima County Attorney’s Office announced plans to introduce red flag legislation in honor of Meixner’s family’s wishes. These laws would allow courts to order the seizure of firearms from individuals who might pose a threat to themselves or others.
Dervish’s conviction and sentencing highlight the need for increased gun safety measures and mental health support within communities to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Source
Photo credit www.usatoday.com
