A Monticello man was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Thursday for the attempted murder of a sheriff’s deputy, according to Sullivan County officials.

Prosecutors say Markell Jarrette, 30, shot at Sullivan County sheriff’s deputies in 2024 after being pursued for shoplifting from a Dollar General store.

Jarette was accused of pointing the illegal firearm toward one deputy at point-blank range. He was not struck and only sustained minor injuries.

District Attorney Brian P. Conaty released a statement on the day of sentencing. In it, he asserted that the community will never tolerate attacks against members of law enforcement.

“Mr. Jarrette’s actions represent the most wicked and evil emotions amongst us,” he said. “I wish to thank all of the law enforcement personnel that attended today’s sentencing proceeding for demonstrating, in full force, that such violent actions taken on their members will not be tolerated in Sullivan County.”