The killer of Navajo Police Department Officer Houston James Largo, Kirby Cleveland, was sentenced in federal court to 30 years in prison on Monday. for the shooting death of Navajo Police Department Officer Houston James Largo.
In 2019, Cleveland plead guilty to second-degree murder for killing Officer Largo, who was shot while responding to a domestic violence call in Prewitt, New Mexico on March 11, 2017. Largo succumbed to his injuries on March 12, 2017.
Cleveland was given an enhanced sentence of 30 years, with the courts following sentencing guidelines. Cleveland faced up to life in prison for second-degree murder.
In attendance at the hearing was Chief of Police Phillip Francisco, Division Director Jesse Delmar, and Council Delegate Edmund Yazzie, who attended to support and stand in solidarity with the family of Officer Houston Largo during the sentencing hearing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In addition, numerous NPD officers and criminal investigators also witnessed the hearing via live stream.
“This has been a long and emotional journey for everyone, more so for the family of Houston. As his police family, it was important for us to stand with his family and support them during this difficult time. This sentencing brings some level of closure but the pain of losing a loved one never gets easy.” Chief Francisco said. “We are grateful for the judge’s enhanced sentencing of Kirby Cleveland but in comparison, 30 years is little for the life taken and the pain it has caused. Officer Largo was out there that night to answer someone’s call for help and he will always be remembered by his department, his family, and his people as a protector of his community.”
Officer Largo was with the Navajo Police Department for five years and was a recipient of the Lifesaving Award and the 2016 Indian Country Officer of the Year. He was also employed with the Gallup Police Department where he received the City Officer of the Year in 2011. Officer Largo served with the Crownpoint Police District. He was 27-years-old at the time of his death.
“Officer Largo will always be remembered as a frontline warrior, who devoted his life to serving and protecting our Navajo people. Our prayers are with his family, his fellow officers, and his community as they continue on the path of healing. I appreciate the support and commitment of Police Chief Francisco, Mr. Delmar, and Council Delegate Edmund Yazzie for Officer Largo’s family and all of our Navajo Police Officers. We will continue to pray for strength, comfort, and healing for the Largo family,” said Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez.