Nashville Man Who Shot At Metro Police Officers Faces Federal Firearms and Drug Charges

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – May 15, 2015 – A federal grand jury has indicted Matthew McKervey, 26, of Nashville, Tenn., for discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and with felony drug offenses involving methamphetamine and heroin, announced David Rivera, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Two others, David Alvarez Becerra-Ruiz, 30, and Daniel Alcala, 28, also of Nashville, are also charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, and possessing and distributing methamphetamine.

According to the indictment, McKervey fired at Metropolitan Nashville police officers as they attempted to execute a search warrant at his home on April 1, 2015.

“When someone uses a firearm against our law enforcement officers who are simply engaging in the lawful execution of their duties, in order to protect the citizens of our communities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will act swiftly and with resolve to insure that justice is carried out,” said U.S. Attorney David Rivera.

"The use of firearms in the illegal drug trade is inherently dangerous to our police officers as well as Nashville's families," Metro Nashville Police Chief Steve Anderson said.  "Those tempted to engage in such conduct should be mindful that this police department will work with our federal partners whenever possible to hold accountable persons who threaten the peace and safety of our neighborhoods.  I am grateful for the support of United States Attorney David Rivera and his staff."

McKervey faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison on the drug charges, and a mandatory, consecutive 10 years to life in prison for discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug felony.  Becerra-Ruiz and Alcala both face a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison on their drug charges.  All three defendants are in custody.

An indictment is merely an accusation.  All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sunny A.M. Koshy.