The Somerset County Prosecutor's Office announced today that a Franklin Township man pleaded guilty to several charges after firing at two officers during an incident in 2013.
Archie L. Ashley, 27, pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree attempted murder, first-degree disarming a law enforcement officer, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, resisting arrest, burglary, theft and criminal mischief.
On Aug. 13, 2013 at approximately 9:41 p.m., police responded Buttonwood Drive for a report of a burglar alarm.
Upon arrival, homeowner told police that when she arrived to her home she found that a living room window had been broken and found blood on the floor.
After police searched the area, a man wearing a white t-shirt stained with what appeared to be fresh blood was spotted near St. Mathias Church on Overbrook Road.
The man, who was later identified as Ashley, became aggressive towards the officer leading to a physical altercation where Ashley removed the officer's weapon and threatening to kill the officer before firing at him. As additional officers attempted to arrest Ashley, he fired a second shot. Shortly after, he was arrested and disarmed.
Responding officers were transported to an area hospital for treatment.
Ashley is being held in lieu of $1 million bail. His sentence is scheduled for Aug. 19.
Authorities also linked Ashley to a second burglary on June 20, 2013 at a residence on Cedar Brook Drive home.