News and image source from the Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Florence, AZ — Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller today announces that his office has filed a Notice of Intent to Seek the Death Penalty against Roger Nunez, for the murder of Apache Junction Police Officer Gabriel Facio.
“The decision follows a thorough review of the facts, evidence, and applicable laws and was made in consultation with input from experienced prosecutors in our office,” says County Attorney Miller. Victim input was considered, as well as consideration from law enforcement officials.
The defendant is accused of killing Officer Facio, shooting him in the face after a traffic stop where Nunez was pulled over for allegedly brandishing a gun in a road-rage incident in Apache Junction. Prosecutors allege the crime meets statutory aggravating factors under Arizona law, including the killing of a peace officer in the line of duty.
County Attorney Miller personally spoke to Officer Facio’s family to notify them of this decision.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
About the Pinal County Attorney’s Office
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office is dedicated to prosecuting criminals, promoting justice, to ensure public safety throughout the county. Led by Brad Miller, a seasoned prosecutor with over 17 years of experience, the office is defined by its commitment to integrity and excellence.
Brad Miller brings a distinguished record of public service to the role, including his tenure as a prosecutor in the Sex Crimes Bureau of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and his service as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
With a staff of over 180 professionals, the office prosecutes more than 2,500 felonies and 1,000 misdemeanors annually and provides over 25,000 services to crime victims, standing as the cornerstone of justice for Pinal County.
