Desmond Phillip Guilty Of Killing Teddy Cepeda In Pittsfield
A jury convicted a Pittsfield man of murder and many gun-related offenses in the shooting death of Teddy Cepeda, 43, and sentenced him to life in prison.
Phillip Desmond
After shooting Cepeda to death, 45-year-old Desmond Phillip was found guilty on Thursday, June 3, of first-degree murder and three other firearm-related offenses. According to the Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office, the jury deliberated for six hours over two days before returning the verdict.
On September 30, 2022, reports of shooting prompted police to respond to 7 Goodrich Street in Pittsfield. Upon their arrival, they discovered Cepeda unconscious on the ground, suffering from a gunshot wound to his chest. After being taken to Berkshire Medical Center, he was declared deceased.
According to investigators, Cepeda had visited the residence to pick up Courtney Haner, a woman he had previously been romantically involved with. At the time, she and Phillip shared the house.
The men’s relationship was characterized by tension and jealousy, according to court testimony. There was a verbal altercation when Cepeda arrived. He was shot once in the chest by Phillip. According to the prosecution, Phillip had already armed himself with an illegal, loaded gun and was aware that Cepeda was approaching.
Phillip’s claim of self-defense was dismissed by the jury. A person is required by Massachusetts law to try to flee before resorting to lethal force. According to officials, jurors concluded that Phillip did not try to retreat.
“When I took office, I promised the community that I would not tolerate gun violence,” said District Attorney Shugrue, who praised the result. That promise was once again kept today.
Along with illegal weapons possession, Phillip was also found guilty of ammunition possession without a firearm identification card and firearm possession without a firearm identification card. A mandatory life sentence is imposed for the murder conviction.
Holding violent offenders responsible is likewise essential for the Berkshires’ safety,” Shugrue stated. “We accomplished that today.
