Suspect in ambush of Philly cop faces hearing today
In stills from a surveillance video
A man authorities said tried to assassinate a Philadelphia police officer in January will be in court on Thursday for a preliminary hearing.
Prosecutors have charged Edward Archer with attempted murder and related offenses in a case that captured the nation’s attention.
Most of the hype focused on Archer’s self-proclaimed ties to the Islamic State. Investigators, including the FBI, haven’t found any evidence of a connection.
Authorities paint Archer, 31, as a lone wolf who may have become radicalized as some point. He did make pilgrimages to the Middle East, but investigators aren’t jumping to conclusions without keying in on a direct link.
Authorities said Archer fired 13 times at Officer Jesse Harnett, who was hit three times in the arm. Hartnett has recovered from his injuries.
Court filings show that Yeadon resident Archer has a criminal record, including firearms offenses and forgery.
Attempted murder is a first-degree felony and carries a maximum punishment of 20 years behind bars.
Archer is being held without bail at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility in Philadelphia.
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