Auburn man convicted of attempted murder of police officer
A Lee County jury has convicted an Auburn man in the attempted murder of a police officer.
The conviction comes from an incident on July 25, 2021, when Officer Leo Gonzalez with Auburn Public Safety – Police & Fire responded to a 911 call reporting a Domestic Violence complaint in a residential area in north Auburn.
“The female caller reported that her husband, Cole Barkley, was drunk and had a gun. On the 911 call, which was played for the jury, the children could be heard crying, shouting for their mother, and calling out for help,” the Lee County District Attorney’s Office said. Officer Gonzalez was patrolling the area and dispatched to the residence. Upon arrival, dispatch relayed to Officer Gonzalez that someone on the 911 call was screaming for help inside the house.
As Officer Gonzalez approached the front door of the home, a woman ran out of the house holding a baby in her arms leaving the older children in the residence. As the woman was running out of the house, Gonzalez immediately saw Barkley pointing a revolver in his direction.
Gonzalez fired several shots at the subject, striking him in the abdomen. Barkley returned fire, firing 5 rounds at Officer Gonzalez. Miraculously, Officer Gonzalez was not hurt during the exchange. After several hours, Barkley was taken into custody and the children were rescued from the home without any physical injuries.
“Because the case involved an Auburn Officer, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency led the investigation. Special Agent Jared Roberson was tasked as lead agent,” the attorney’s office added. “Senior Trial Assistant District Attorney Garrett Saucer did an incredible job presenting the case to the jury over the course of several days. Evidence included the 911 call, photographs, and witness testimony”
“A special note of appreciation and recognition of bravery is due to Officer Leo Gonzalez. Domestic violence calls are some of the most dangerous calls for law enforcement to respond to. Officer Gonzalez’ quick-thinking and courage kept others from getting hurt and prevented a volatile situation from escalating. Additionally, the Lee County SWAT, which is made up from officers of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Alabama, Opelika Police Department, and the Auburn Public Safety – Police & Fire, was able to secure the area and the shooter without further injuries.”
The sentencing for Walker Coleman “Cole” Barkley is set for a later date. If you are a victim of Domestic Violence, please reach out to the Lee County Domestic Violence Intervention Center.
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