A man accused of carrying out an armed robbery and shooting at police at the Wildhorse Resort & Casino has pleaded guilty after abandoning his insanity defense during trial.
Guilty Plea in High-Profile Casino Shooting Case
Javier Francisco Vigil admitted in federal court to charges including attempted murder, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm. The plea came on the second day of his trial, ending arguments that he was legally insane at the time of the crime.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys have agreed to recommend a 20-year prison sentence, with plans for Vigil to serve time in a federal facility equipped with medical services.
Details of the 2022 Armed Robbery
The incident occurred on August 17, 2022, when Vigil entered the casino and approached the cashier cage with a handwritten note demanding $1 million. He then pulled out a handgun and threatened staff.
A longtime cashier testified that Vigil claimed he was God and made violent threats before taking cash. He ultimately fled the casino with approximately $69,000 in stolen money placed in a plastic bag.
Shootout With Tribal Police
As Vigil exited the building, he encountered an officer from the Umatilla Tribal Police Department. Authorities said Vigil ignored commands to stop, raised his weapon, and exchanged gunfire with the officer.
Vigil was shot and collapsed outside the casino, where officers recovered the firearm and stolen cash. A bystander standing nearby was also injured during the exchange but survived.
Defense Shift and Mental Health Claims
Initially, Vigil’s attorneys argued he suffered from severe mental illness, claiming he believed he was on a divine mission and did not understand his actions.
However, prosecutors countered that he was aware of his conduct, citing recorded jail calls and other evidence. Authorities also noted he tested positive for methamphetamine after the incident.
By pleading guilty, Vigil dropped his insanity defense, significantly altering the course of the case.
What Happens Next
Vigil is scheduled to be sentenced on August 4. The case highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement and civilians during armed confrontations, as well as the complexities surrounding mental health defenses in criminal trials.
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