Sentence Handed Down in Case of Fallen Officer Joseph McKinney
Shelby County, TN – Nineteen-year-old Devaron Taylor was sentenced today to 18 years in the Tennessee Department of Correction for his role in the violent encounter that claimed the life of Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney in April 2024.
Taylor’s sentencing brings a measure of accountability in a case that deeply impacted the Memphis Police Department and the community. During the hearing, members of Officer McKinney’s family delivered emotional victim impact statements, describing the pain of losing a son, brother, and protector — and the lasting void his death has left in their lives.
On April 12, 2024, Memphis Police officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle running and occupied in a field. The vehicle was later confirmed to be stolen. As officers approached, they observed the passenger, Devaron Taylor — then 17 years old — holding a firearm later determined to be a modified Glock equipped with an illegal “switch,” converting it into a fully automatic weapon capable of firing dozens of rounds in seconds.
When officers issued verbal commands to show his hands, Taylor turned and opened fire. Officer McKinney acted heroically, moving a fellow officer out of the direct line of gunfire. His quick action saved her life but placed him in harm’s way. He was struck and fatally wounded in the exchange.
TBI Ballistics evidence later indicated that the fatal shot that struck Officer McKinney did not come from Taylor’s weapon. However, Taylor’s actions directly triggered the gunfire exchange that led to Officer McKinney’s death, and he was held accountable for his role in creating the deadly confrontation.
“While the fatal round did not come from Taylor’s weapon, his decision to open fire on officers set in motion the chain of events that led to Officer McKinney’s death,” said a DA’s Office spokesperson. “No amount of justice can equal the loss of Officer McKinney, but the defendant has been held accountable for his role in the deadly confrontation.”
Even after the gunfire, the stolen vehicle fled the scene, placing more lives in danger. MPD officers acted swiftly to prevent further harm, ultimately taking Taylor into custody and ensuring he received medical care for his injuries.
Taylor, who was charged as an adult, appeared in Criminal Court Division 7 before Judge Lee Coffee. His sentence includes:
Facilitation of Second-Degree Murder – 18 years (45% release eligibility)
Aggravated Assault (2 counts) – 6 years (100%)
Reckless Aggravated Assault (10 counts) – 4 years each (30% release eligibility)
All counts will run concurrently for a total of 18 years to serve, with no probation.
“Family and friends gathered in the court today to speak to the life of Officer Joseph McKinney,” said Chief Prosecutor Matthew Ian John who handled the hearing along with Chief Prosecutor Melanie Headley. “ They wanted him to be remembered as a hero. They also wanted his death to be a lesson that our justice system is still in need of repair. They were thankful to the courthouse for allowing gan opportunity to be heard and to keep Officer McKinney’s sacrifice alive for us all to remember the strive and dedication of law enforcement to protect the city of Memphis.”
The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office commends the Memphis Police Department for its professionalism, bravery, and swift action during and after this tragic event.