Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks announces that a man who was convicted of trying to kill a Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP) trooper has been sentenced to 52 years in prison. Darnelle Boykins was previously found guilty of Attempted Murder with the Use of a Deadly Weapon, Discharging a Firearm at an Occupied Vehicle, and Assault with the Use of a Deadly Weapon – Victim is a First Responder.
Back in June of last year, troopers with NHP were called out to a reckless driver on the highway. The trooper was able to find Boykins at a gas station in South Reno, where he noticed the defendant smelling of alcohol and having bloodshot, watery eyes. He was also heard saying into his phone, “I’m so fucked up.” Boykins did not acknowledge the trooper and instead began driving again. After the first trooper lost sight of the defendant, a second trooper found him in town, driving the wrong direction down the street. The second trooper tried to initiate a traffic stop, but Boykins instead began speeding, ran a red light, and jumped a center median, beginning a pursuit.
The first trooper rejoined the second trooper at this point, and the two attempted to initiate another traffic stop. At this time, Boykins slammed on his brakes, leaned out of his window, and began firing at both troopers, hitting the first trooper’s car. Following a standoff, Boykins exited his car and charged at the troopers, where he was subsequently tased.
During sentencing, Deputy District Attorney Matt Merrill highlighted Boykin’s actions of shooting at the trooper three times and only stopping after his gun becoming jammed. Merrill also touched on how the troopers acted honorably and with valor by having the wherewithal during the dangerous situation to switch to non-lethal means to control the defendant. The Honorable Judge Connie Steinheimer presided and imposed the 52-year sentence with parole eligibility after 16 years.
A recording of the press release for media can be heard below. Mug shots can be found on the WCDA Facebook and Twitter accounts.
