James Marshall Sentenced
to 11 Years in Prison
ALAMOSA – James Marshall was sentenced to 11 years in prison and 5 years probation for shooting Cañon City resident Danny Pruitt during a Black Lives Matter protest on Main Street in June 2020.
Marshall pleaded guilty in August, avoiding trial.
During the sentencing hearing, Pruitt gave his final words, as did Marshall, District Atttorney Alonzo Payne, and Marshall’s attorney, Randy Canney.
Marshall described his past history, motivations for owning a concealed-carry handgun, and reasoning for shooting Pruitt.
Payne called the shooting “an extreme case of privilege and cowardice.”
Canney called it an “instantaneous mistake.”
Judge Gilbert Martinez called recess and returned to deliver the sentencing. He prefaced by stating that he did not take into account Marshall’s history as a lawyer or his right to own a concealed carry handgun.
Martinez said that a minimum sentence in this case “would unduly depreciate the actions of the defendant.” The charges carry a minimum sentence of 4 years and a maximum of 12.
The sentence of 11 years in Colorado State Prison and 5 years parole were then handed down. Marshall was given 91 days to file restitution, given the right for a 35b Motion within the appropriate amount of time, and then taken into custody by Alamosa County Sheriff’s deputies.
– Owen Woods | owen@alamosacitizen.com
Tree and firewood permits still available
MONTE VISTA – Rio Grande National Forest announced today that Christmas tree and firewood permits will remain on sale at Forest offices throughout December.
Permits will be available daily, at all offices, except at the Saguache Ranger District office (Thursdays only) and Monte Vista Headquarters (Fridays only).
There will be office closures at all locations between the holidays; visitors are encouraged to call any office prior to arrival to make sure staff is available. Christmas tree permits may be purchased at our vendors and online. Please see our Christmas tree page for more information.
Firewood cutters are reminded that all 2021 permits will expire on December 31, 2021.
Contact numbers for Rio Grande National Forest offices are:
- Conejos Peak RD in La Jara – (719) 274-8971
- Divide RD in Del Norte – (719) 657-3321
- Saguache RD in Saguache – (719) 655-2547
- Headquarters in Monte Vista – (719) 852-5941
