Police Officer Found Guilty of Murdering Friend

A southern New Jersey police officer has been found guilty of murder in the January 2013 shooting death of his friend.

Deptford police officer James Stuart was found guilty of one count of murder and a count of aggravated manslaughter Thursday.

Prosecutors said Stuart shot David Compton in the face at Stuart's home while he was off-duty.

Stuart testified Compton came to his home after they were at a bar and Compton asked to look at his off-duty weapon while they were watching a movie.

Stuart's blood-alcohol content tested 0.14 percent, above the state's limit of 0.08 for alcohol-related offenses.

Prosecutors said Stuart acted recklessly.

Stuart said he did not know the gun was loaded and would never have hurt Compton.

Mutual friends have testified the men were close friends.