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Sources: Cop Killer is Illegal Immigrant

Juan Leonardo Quintero, 32, has been jailed without bond after being charged with capital murder in the death of decorated Houston Police Officer Rodney Johnson.
By Tracee Evans
Friday, September 22, 2006
Quintero is scheduled to make his first court appearance Monday before Judge Joan Campbell. Johnson, 40, was pronounced dead Thursday night at Ben Taub Hospital after being shot multiple times with a 9mm handgun, according to prosecutors.

The shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m. following a routine traffic stop on Braniff Street near Hobby Airport. Johnson had just handcuffed Quintero and put him in the back of a patrol car. According to prosecutors, Quintero pulled a gun from his waistband and started firing, hitting Johnson several times.

Meantime, local law enforcement sources tell KTRH News that Quintero is in the U.S. illegally and has an extensive criminal history. KTRH News has learned Quintero was charged with indecency with a child in 1998 and driving while intoxicated in 1995.

Officials say as many a three individuals who had been in Quintero's truck fled the scene. The suspect was still in the patrol car when other officers arrived in response to Johnson's distress call. Shell casings and the gun were recovered from the back seat, according to court papers.

Johnson's widow, Joslyn, is also on the force. They have five children.

The 100 Club is issuing the family a check for $10,000 to help with immediate expenses. Club Executive Director Rick Hartley says the organization will help the family financially as well as provide college tuition assistance for all five Johnson children.

To make a donation to help the Johnson family, see www.the100club.org.