Man sentenced to life for trying to shoot and kill Cape Coral officer

Reporter: Annalise Iraola Writer: Paul Dolan
Published: Updated:
police
Yousel Rivera mugshot. CREDIT: LCSO

A man will spend the rest of his life in prison for trying to kill a Cape Coral police officer.

WINK News was in the courtroom when Yousel Rivera was sentenced to life in prison for trying to shoot a Cape Coral Police Officer during a 2011 traffic stop.

David Wagoner, was the officer shot by Rivera multiple times during the traffic stop.

“On April 16, 2011, Yousel Rivera attempted to kill me and take me away from all that I love in this world,” said Wagoner while on the stand on Tuesday.

However, Wagoner’s bulletproof vest helped save his life from shots fired by Rivera.

“This man predetermined decision to pull the trigger three times has had an immense negative impact on me, my wife and my three children,” said Wagoner.

Rivera was found guilty of attempted first-degree premeditated murder in January.

“We’re thankful for the decision today,” said Wagoner. “We’re so thankful for all those out there that continue to serve and protect us as a family and our communities.”

More than 13 years after pulling the trigger, River was sentenced to life behind bars.

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