Tuesday, March 14, 2000
Parole denied for cop's killer
Victim's parents relieved by vote
BY SHEILA McLAUGHLIN
The Cincinnati Enquirer
COLUMBUS — Convicted cop killer Tony McIntosh was ordered to spend the next decade in prison after the Ohio Parole Board rejected his release on Monday.
Joe Andrews, spokesman for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, said the board cited the “serious nature of the crime” in rendering its decision.
Mr. McIntosh, 34, of Morrow, next comes up for parole in March 2010, Mr. Andrews said.
Mr. McIntosh was convicted of murder in 1987 and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for the shotgun slaying of rookie Morrow Police Officer Jeff Phegley.
Officer Phegley, then 22, was gunned down Jan. 21, 1987, after he stopped Mr. McIntosh for speeding on Morrow-Rossburg Road.
Mr. McIntosh had contended that the officer shot at him first, a claim disputed by a tape made on a recorder that Officer Phegley had in his shirt pocket when he was killed.
The parole board's denial came after more than 15,000 people opposed Mr. McIntosh's release through letters and petitions in a campaign led by Officer Phegley's parents, Joe and Barb Phegley of White Oak.
They have said they want Mr. McIntosh to remain in prison for life.
A hearing officer and one member of the parole board heard the case March 7, but referred it to a 12-member review board for a decision — a routine move in controversial cases.
It was the first time Mr. McIntosh was considered for parole since being sent to prison 13 years ago. He is incarcerated at North Central Correctional Institution in Marion.
Mr. Phegley said he was satisfied with the parole board's decision. He offered thanks to everyone who supported the family and contacted the parole board on their son's behalf.
“We're very pleased. ... We have worked very long and very diligently to have this happen,” he said.
“It sends a good, positive message to everyone that kills anyone, especially a police officer in the line of duty in Ohio. They're going to have to pay the consequences.”
In an interview last month, Mr. McIntosh told the Enquirer that he had changed, that he was looking forward to starting a new life after being married this year, and that he was remorseful for the killing.
However, he said he doubted the parole board would decide in his favor and expected to spend at least another five years in prison.
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