The ringleader of a burglary crew that gunned down a NYPD cop was convicted of felony murder today after a Brooklyn jury decided the thug “had a very important role in the murder of the police officer.”
Nelson Morales, 28, organized the five-man burglary team that broke into the home of an East New York drug dealer in 2011. One of the other crooks in Morales’ crew, Lamont Pride, 29, was convicted earlier this year of shooting and killing responding police officer Peter Figoski.
“Had it not been for him, Officer Figoski would still be alive. I think he had a very important role in the murder of the police officer,” said juror Lorielle Braxton, 34, who added she felt empathy for the Figoski family.
“Seeing them in the courtroom, they looked strong … Even after all this, I don’t think there’s closure [for the daughters] because their dad is still gone. They’re still missing that part of their family. That’s going to be a long road for them.”
During deliberations each juror wrote their vote on a piece of paper and threw it into a hat so the jurors could remain unanimous – but every vote was guilty, Braxton said.
“It wasn’t hard, to be honest with you. It wasn’t hard. The DA did a very good job in presenting their case. For me, there wasn’t much to deliberate,” said another juror. “To see the girls, to see the family, his colleagues, it’s very emotional, to deal with losing a colleague.”
The slain cop’s mother and two eldest daughters began to cry quietly as the verdict was read.
“Today was a good day. Although it brought back a lot of bad memories, today was a victory,” said Robert Figoski, the murdered cop’s brother. ““The reason we keep coming every day is to continue fighting for Peter.”
Morales’ mother sobbed hysterically, “”No, no, it’s not right, that’s my son!” and later collapsed in the hallway outside the courtroom.
Another jury will deliberate the verdict of alleged burglar Kevin Santos on Tuesday. Accused getaway driver Michael Velez was acquitted earlier this year while thug-turned-snitch Ariel Tejada turned rat and testified against his former pals in exchange for a sweet plea deal.
Morales could get 25 years to life when he is sentenced June 13.
jsaul@nypost.com