Ashford Thompson sentenced to death in cop killing

AKRON, Ohio - The jury has recommended a man be sentenced to death for the killing of a Twinsburg police officer shot in the line of duty.

Ashford Thompson's mitigation hearing started Thursday morning in an Akron courtroom, and NewsChannel5 learned that a decision was made Friday around 10 a.m.

Thompson was found guilty of all nine counts against him in connection with officer Josh Miktarian's death, including a second aggravated murder charge for fleeing after committing the crime.

During the reading of the verdict, Thompson sat with his arms crossed while the verdict was read, showing no emotion on his face. He didn't take the stand during the actual trial, but testified during the mitigation hearing on Thursday.

The same jury that returned last week's verdict is the same one that decides his penalty.

Miktarian's widow Hollie did not comment following the jury's recommendation but will speak publicly when she reads a victim's impact statement June 23.  That's the day the judge will decide whether to impose the recommended verdict of death.

Twinsburg Police Chief Christopher Noga issued this statement after the sentence was announced:

"Today, a jury in Summit County having found Ashford Thompson guilty of the aggravated murder of Twinsburg Police K9 Officer Joshua T. Miktarian recommended the only possible sentence appropriate in this case -- death. The jury recognized the brutality of this case -- that Officer Miktarian was executed in cold blood while faithfully and lawfully performing his duties as a police officer for the City of Twinsburg. The jury saw through Thompson's false humility; observed his arrogant and callous disregard for the life of our friend as well as the laws of our society; and determined that the only proper sentence for his crime is death.

On behalf of the City of Twinsburg, the Miktarian family, and law enforcement through the State of Ohio, I want to thank the jury for their service and their courage. I am confident that the judge will impose the sentence recommended by this jury, and that the sentence will be carried out expeditiously."