CHEYENNE, Wyo. — In a packed courtroom on Thursday afternoon, former Wyoming Highway Patrol Sergeant Gabriel Testerman was sentenced to 10–15 years in prison. Judge Robin S. Cooley imposed the sentence on May 23. The state, led by Sweetwater County prosecutor Daniel Erramouspe, had argued for a much harsher sentence of 35–40 years, while Testerman’s defense sought probation or a shorter five- to seven-year term.
Impact Statements and Testimonies
The prosecution presented a victim impact statement by Cecilia “Cici” Mohren and clips of an interview with Tammy Brown, Testerman’s ex-wife. They also called Cheyenne Police Department Sergeant Nicholas Morgan and another ex-wife, Casi Crites, to testify against Testerman’s character. The state emphasized the severe mental and physical harm caused by Testerman’s actions.
Defense Strategy
Defense attorney Devon Petersen introduced several character witnesses in support of Testerman, including his sister Angela Sandstorm, Tammy Brown and Landon Brown. The defense also submitted multiple letters attesting to Testerman’s positive impact on the community. They highlighted his relationship with his children, his career as a Highway Patrol officer and his military service.
“Consistency in sentencing is a backbone of the system,” Petersen argued, pointing to shorter sentences in similar cases. The defense also suggested that the state’s demand for a lengthy sentence was influenced by the case’s high profile and Testerman’s career in law enforcement.
Testerman spoke on his own behalf, thanking the court for allowing him to be on bond. He cited his volunteer work, career accomplishments and role as a former president of the Wyoming Peace Officers Association as mitigating factors. He also emphasized his lack of a criminal history.
State’s Rebuttal
The prosecution countered by presenting the letters as evidence of Testerman’s dual nature. They argued that his law enforcement career should be considered an aggravating factor, not a mitigating one. The state stressed that Testerman’s actions had caused significant harm, which warranted a stringent sentence.
Objections and Final Arguments
The defense raised objections to the inclusion of Tammy Brown’s interview clip and the consideration of elements from counts on which Testerman had been acquitted. “We won’t have a meaningful opportunity to dispute what’s presented here today,” Petersen argued.
The high-profile trial, which concluded with a mixed verdict, highlighted the complexities of sexual misconduct cases involving authority figures. While Testerman was found guilty of first-degree sexual assault against Mohren, he was acquitted on other charges. The trial underscored the intense legal battles and emotional testimonies that often accompany such cases.
