WOODBURY -- The sentencing for a former police officer convicted of murdering his friend is set for the end of the month, Gloucester County court officials have confirmed.

James Stuart, an Oak Valley native and former member of the Deptford Township Police Department, was convicted Oct. 1 of murder and aggravated manslaughter. He was originally scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 18; however, the hearing has been moved to Jan. 29.

Stuart admitted to shooting his longtime friend, David Compton, after a long night of drinking on Jan. 5, 2013. He claimed during the trial that he had picked up a gun he thought was unloaded, accidentally shooting 27-year-old Compton in the face. Stuart had a BAC level of .14 when Deptford police took him to a hospital for a blood test.

Compton died several days later, after being taken off life support.

The case attracted widespread attention after it was revealed that Stuart first reported the shooting using a special dispatch line for police officers, rather than simply calling 911. The ensuing trial included testimony from a litany of medical experts, law enforcement officials and close friends who had known both men since middle school.

After a two-week trial, a jury convicted Stuart of murder and aggravated manslaughter. Deliberation had dragged on for 2 1/2 days.

Compton's family said at the time that they were happy with the verdict.

"Only two people knew exactly what happened the morning of Jan. 5 when David's voice was silenced forever," said his father, Bill Compton, after the guilty verdict was announced.

"We're just so grateful the jury did not believe the lies Mr. Stuart told," said David's mother, Maureen Compton.

The manslaughter conviction comes with a sentencing range of 10 to 30 years in prison, while murder could mean 30 years to life.

Andy Polhamus may be reached at apolhamus@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ajpolhamus. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.