579/14/2024
In a significant win for law enforcement, a Houston man, Constantine Argyriou, has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the 2017 shooting of Precinct 4 Constable's Deputy Justin Gay. The sentencing, announced by Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, comes as a clear message that violent acts against law enforcement will not be tolerated.
"Our officers put their lives on the line daily to protect our community," Ogg stated. "When someone deliberately harms an officer, we will ensure justice is served, making sure perpetrators spend substantial time behind bars."
Argyriou, 44, was convicted of aggravated assault of a public servant, a first-degree felony, carrying similar penalties as a murder conviction. During the five-day trial, jurors were presented with evidence detailing how Deputy Gay responded to a domestic violence call at Argyriou's home in northwest Houston. Upon arrival, witnesses informed Gay that Argyriou had left the house but was nearby in a grassy area.
When Deputy Gay attempted to detain Argyriou, a violent struggle ensued. While on the ground, Argyriou drew a concealed pistol, shooting the deputy seven times in the legs. Standing over the critically wounded officer, Argyriou fired several more shots before fleeing. He was apprehended roughly a mile from the scene by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Gay, airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital, survived his life-threatening injuries. Remarkably, he was able to walk again after four months of intensive treatment and rehabilitation. Although he returned to work as a peace officer, Gay testified about the chronic pain he continues to endure due to the injuries.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Sepi Zimmer and Bryan Honeycutt, both chiefs in the Major Offenders Division. Zimmer praised the jury’s decision, stating, "The verdict sends a clear message that Harris County supports law enforcement. Anyone who shoots a police officer will face significant prison time."
Under Texas law, Argyriou will be required to serve at least half of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. The 50-year sentence demonstrates the community’s unwavering stance on protecting law enforcement officers from violent offenders.