Man Convicted of Sexual Battery and Incest for Assaulting Young Family Members
Richard Higgs has been convicted by a jury on charges of Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure and Incest. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in July 2019, where Higgs sexually assaulted two family members. Reports indicate that Higgs molested the 14-year-old family member in a bathroom.
Shelby County, TN—Richard Higgs has been convicted by a jury on charges of Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure and Incest. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in July 2019, where Higgs sexually assaulted two family members. Reports indicate that Higgs molested the 14-year-old family member in a bathroom. When her 12-year-old sister attempted to intervene by knocking on the door, the older girl managed to escape. However, Higgs then took the 12-year- old in the bathroom and proceeded to rape her. After immediately informing their mother of the incident, she called police.
The trial, which concluded on Friday, lasted a week. During that time, the State presented testimony from ten witnesses, including a crisis nurse and a TBI serologist. Following the State's arguments, the jury reached a verdict in less than an hour.
“Testifying against a family member is never easy for victims,” said Special Victims Unit prosecutor Gavin Smith, who served as lead prosecutor on the case, along with ADA Dru Carpenter. "We're relieved they received the justice they deserve and hope they can now begin to heal."
Higgs’ charges carry a minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum of 60 years, served at 100 percent. Sentencing is scheduled for July 5th.
Man Found Guilty of Brutal Murders of Mother and Infant; will Serve Two Consecutive Life Sentences
Shelby County, TN—Following a week-long trial that ended Saturday, Enoch Turner has been convicted by a jury for the murders of 32-year-old Heather Cook and her 4-month-old son, Bentley Cook, in 2019.
Shelby County, TN—Following a week-long trial that ended Saturday, Enoch Turner has been convicted by a jury for the murders of 32-year-old Heather Cook and her 4-month-old son, Bentley Cook, in 2019. Turner, later identified as the father of the infant, was found guilty of First-Degree Murder charges, Aggravated Child Abuse, Aggravated Arson, and Especially Aggravated Burglary.
Motivated by a desire to evade his paternal responsibilities, Turner killed Cook after she pursued legal measures to establish paternity. On September 13, 2019, the eve of the scheduled paternity test, Turner broke into Cook’s home and stabbed her over 100 times. He stabbed the infant, Bently Cook, ten times before setting the house on fire and fleeing.
Turner was apprehended by police that same day. He attempted to fabricate his alibi before reluctantly admitting to his presence at the crime scene but denying guilt, claiming that he “found them like that.”
During the trial, the State presented overwhelming evidence, resulting in a unanimous conviction on all counts.
Lead prosecutor Paul Hagerman emphasized the gravity of Turner's crimes, underscoring the loss suffered by Heather and Bentley's loved ones.
After Turner was found guilty, the prosecution agreed to two consecutive life without parole sentences.
“He will never be released from jail,” said Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman, who served as a prosecutor on the case along with Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen. “The family wants everyone to remember that being a mom meant everything to Heather; and even though Bently only lived four months, everyone could tell that his mom meant everything to him. It has always been our mission to ensure from that date on that Turner never gets out of jail.”
The State noticed the death penalty and pursued it until the jury convicted the defendant. At that time, the State, with the agreeance of the family, agreed to two life without parole sentences.
“This ensures Turner dies in prison, and that was what the family wanted. Their peace matters,” Hagerman said. Saturday night, Heather and Bentley got some justice. The next day, Mother’s Day, the family took some extra time to remember them—this time with the peace that Turner can never hurt anyone like them again."
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Bond Set at $3 Million for One of Three Suspects in Deadly Double Shooting in North Memphis
Shelby County, TN— On Tuesday, May 7, following witness testimony and the compelling argument presented by the State at the preliminary hearing, Judge Karen Massey found probable cause for the charge of First Degree Murder on Jarius Hibbler and set a $3 million bond.
Shelby County, TN— On Tuesday, May 7, following witness testimony and the compelling argument presented by the State at the preliminary hearing, Judge Karen Massey found probable cause for the charge of First Degree Murder on Jarius Hibbler and set a $3 million bond.
According to the police report and information presented in court, the incident occurred on April 2, near the Cavalier Court Apartments in North Memphis. MPD responded to a disturbance call near Hollywood Street. Amid their investigation, officers heard multiple gunshots. The victim, Troy Cunningham, was discovered on the sidewalk near Peres and Merton Street, having sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the back of his head. Additionally, during the incident, gunfire struck the vehicle of two female victims traveling westbound on Peres Avenue, resulting in one of the women sustaining a gunshot wound to the shoulder.
Hibbler was identified as making Cunningham raise his hands in the air, taking property from Cunningham, and then shooting at the victim as he was running away.
Hibbler was the first of several defendants to be charged in connection with this homicide and remains in jail. A second defendant, Tamarius Barron, was arrested Tuesday and scheduled for Arraignment today. A warrant has been issued for a third defendant, Deario Wilkerson. He has not yet been arrested.
Assistant District Attorney Sam Winnig is prosecuting the case.
VIDEO: DA's Office Honors Crime Victims with Bridge Lighting Ceremony
In honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office hosted a bridge lighting ceremony, illuminating the Memphis Bridge to honor victims of crime.
In honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office hosted a bridge lighting ceremony, illuminating the Memphis Bridge to honor victims of crime. The ceremony took place on April 25th, symbolizing the office's commitment to support and remember those affected by crime.
DA's Office Commemorates National Crime Victims' Rights Week with Bridge Lighting Ceremony
In honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office will host a bridge lighting ceremony, illuminating the Memphis Bridge to honor victims of crime. The ceremony will take place on April 27 at 7:30 PM, symbolizing our community's commitment to support and remember those affected by crime.
Shelby County, TN - In honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office will host a bridge lighting ceremony, illuminating the Memphis Bridge to honor victims of crime. The ceremony will take place on April 25 at 7:30 PM, symbolizing our community's commitment to support and remember those affected by crime.
The significance of this event is underscored by the sobering statistics from 2022, where nearly 20 million individuals in the United States fell victim to various crimes. Over 6.6 million of these incidents involved violent crimes such as rape or sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, and simple assault, with only approximately 42% reported to law enforcement.
This year's theme for National Crime Victims' Rights Week is "How Can You Assist? Providing options, services, and encouragement for survivors." It's imperative that we cultivate an environment where victims and survivors feel secure discussing their experiences openly. This theme strives to guarantee that everyone within a community is aware of the resources and avenues available for crime victims and survivors, extending from friends, family, and colleagues to neighbors, service providers, and other trusted community members.
At the Shelby County DA's Office, our dedicated team of over 20 victim witness coordinators tirelessly works to offer support, services, and resources to victims and witnesses. The team works with thousands of victims and witnesses, with approximately 14,000 new victims and witnesses each year.
“It is important to underscore the significance of observing National Crime Victims' Rights Week,” said Amy McCullough, Director of Victim Witness Services. “It is not merely a formality; it is an acknowledgment of the profound impact crime has on individuals and communities, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to support and empower those affected.”
Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy echoed McCullough’s sentiments.
“By commemorating Crime Victims' Rights Week, we send a clear message that victims of crime are not forgotten or overlooked. We stand in solidarity with them, offering compassion, support, and resources to help them navigate the often overwhelming aftermath of their situation,” said DA Mulroy.
The bridge lighting ceremony is open to the public. The brief ceremony will begin promptly at 7:30 PM—with the bridge lighting happening shortly after.
The event will be held at Memphis Suffrage Monument, located behind the U of M Law School Library on 1 N Front St.
Shelby County DA's Office Provides Significant Updates in Officer-Involved Shooting
Today, District Attorney Mulroy officially declined to pursue criminal charges against any of the MPD officers present during the tragic death of MPD Officer Joseph McKinney on April 12.
Shelby County-TN—Today, District Attorney Mulroy officially declined to pursue criminal charges against any of the MPD officers present during the tragic death of MPD Officer Joseph McKinney on April 12. Following a swift yet thorough review conducted by our Justice Review Unit, DA Mulroy concurred with their findings that the officers' use of force was justified. They were responding to gunfire directed at them, presenting a clear and immediate threat to their lives. Given these circumstances, their actions were deemed both reasonable and justified. We would also like to thank the officers at TBI for their speedy and diligent investigation to date.
In a separate development today, our office has amended charges for the 17-year-old individual present at the scene on April 12. In addition to the previously announced charges, we are now adding Second Degree Murder and Reckless Homicide charges in connection with Officer McKinney's death. Second Degree Murder involves a knowing killing and is classified as a Class A Felony, carrying a potential sentence of 15-25 years. Reckless Homicide involves the reckless killing of another and carries a potential sentence of 2-4 years. The additional charges—with the application of consecutive sentencing—could result in the individual facing a cumulative sentence exceeding 300 years.
“Let me be clear about this,” said DA Mulroy.“There is only one person responsible for the death of Officer McKinney, and that’s the person we’re charging. We intend to prosecute this case vigorously. This kind of abhorrent violent behavior is intolerable. Those who commit it will face serious consequences. We’re determined to see that justice is done in this case.”
This investigation, conducted by the TBI, is still active and ongoing.
Update on Officer-Involved Shooting
Our office recently released a statement with our intent to file a motion to transfer the 17-year-old involved in the officer-involved shooting to adult court. Within the statement, we detailed the charges against him. Since then, some questions have arisen regarding the absence of a murder charge.
Our office recently released a statement with our intent to file a motion to transfer the 17-year-old involved in the officer-involved shooting to adult court. Within the statement, we detailed the charges against him. Since then, some questions have arisen regarding the absence of a murder charge.
We have not proceeded with a murder charge at this time because current information indicates that Officer McKinney was killed by friendly fire.
Although current information indicates friendly fire, we believe the 17-year-old’s reprehensible actions are the cause of Officer McKinney’s death. Should a legal avenue open up for additional prosecution, be assured we will pursue it.
This is an ongoing TBI investigation.
District Attorney's Office to Request Transfer to Prosecute 17-Year-Old Involved in Officer-Involved Shooting as an Adult
The Shelby County DA’s Office will be filing a motion to transfer the 17-year-old involved in the officer-involved shooting on April 12th, which tragically resulted in the death of Officer Joseph McKinney and injured two other MPD officers. The defendant sustained critical injuries, and a co-defendant, Jaylen Lobley, was fatally shot.
Shelby County, TN—The Shelby County DA’s Office will be filing a motion to transfer the 17-year-old involved in the officer-involved shooting on April 12th, which tragically resulted in the death of Officer Joseph McKinney and injured two other MPD officers. The defendant sustained critical injuries, and a co-defendant, Jaylen Lobley, was fatally shot.
The charges we are pursuing against this defendant underscore the gravity of this tragic incident. The charges are: 13 Counts of each of the following—Criminal Attempt First Degree Murder; Assault Against First Responder; and Aggravated Assault.
Additional charges include Theft of Property $10,000-$60,000; Possessing a Firearm During Commission or Attempt to Commit Dangerous Felony; Possession Of a Prohibited Weapon; and Evading Arrest. Cumulatively, these charges carry a potential maximum sentence of 400 years.
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DA Mulroy Responds to Previously Released Statement on Jaylen Lobley, Suspect in Officer-Involved Shooting
Our initial statement was crafted before I listened to the entire audio of the hearing, and was based on preliminary information from the case prosecutor.
“Our initial statement was crafted before I listened to the entire audio of the hearing, and was based on preliminary information from the case prosecutor. While our prosecutor accurately conveyed our opposition to any lowering of the bond or ROR, upon reviewing the audio, we realized that the phrase “strongly oppose” was not correct. We acknowledge any confusion this may have caused.
The prosecutor opposed any lowering of the bond, and stressed the importance of cases involving stolen vehicles and Glock switches. This is in accord with our V11 violent crime initiative, which prioritizes such offenses and has proven effective in the prosecution of several recent cases. In the wake of this tragedy, I have reemphasized to all attorney supervisors our presumption against ROR in V11 cases.
Transparency is important to our office. We want the public to know that our commitment remains unchanged. We will promptly and decisively prosecute the individuals who are disrupting our communities by committing these violent crimes. Criminals need to know that there will be consequences for their actions, especially when they are violent.”
Quavarre Rogers, Alleged Perpetrator in Beale Street Shooting; Now Charged With First-Degree Murder
Quavarre Rogers, accused of fatally shooting a man on Beale Street last month, is now in custody. The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office presented the case to a grand jury last week, resulting in an indictment returned just one day after. Subsequently, a warrant was issued for Rogers’ arrest. Today, he was apprehended by MPD’s Organized Crime Unit Fugitive Team in Olive Branch.
Shelby County, TN–Quavarre Rogers, accused of fatally shooting a man on Beale Street last month, is now in custody. The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office presented the case to a grand jury last week, resulting in an indictment returned just one day after. Subsequently, a warrant was issued for Rogers’ arrest. Today, he was apprehended by MPD’s Organized Crime Unit Fugitive Team in Olive Branch.
Rogers was initially charged with Second-Degree Murder in the shooting and killing of Damein Hawkins outside Jerry Lee Lewis' Café on March 17. He now faces an elevated charge of First-Degree Murder and Possession of a Prohibited Weapon.
On April 10, the charges against Rogers were dropped in General Sessions Court due to lack of prosecution. The District Attorney's Office promptly escalated the matter, presenting it to a grand jury on April 11. This swift action led to Rogers' indictment, and a warrant for arrest issued the next day.
Rogers is currently awaiting extradition from Mississippi. His bond is set at 1 million dollars.
DA Mulroy Issues Statement on Officer-Involved Shooting
I'm deeply saddened by Officer Joseph McKinney's passing and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues at MPD. Upon learning of this tragic incident, I promptly called in TBI to investigate. Consequently, there are limitations on what I can say at this time to avoid compromising TBI's investigation.
“I'm outraged and deeply saddened by Officer Joseph McKinney's passing and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and colleagues at MPD. Upon learning of this tragic incident, I promptly called in TBI to investigate. Consequently, there are limitations on what I can say at this time to avoid compromising TBI's investigation.
What we do know is that at the time of this offense, one of the suspects, Jaylen Lobley, was released in March on ROR with various conditions including reporting and curfew. This bond was granted by a Shelby County Judicial Commissioner following a hearing where our office strongly argued against lowering the bond, citing the defendant's danger to the community. Despite our arguments, the Commissioner approved the ROR bond.
My office was actively prioritizing the Lobley case, identifying him as a high-risk offender and reviewing his file as part of our Project Safe Neighborhoods state-federal partnership. Even though Lobley was a first-time offender, his case had been accepted for Federal prosecution. This is consistent with my firm belief, made a part of our “V11” violent crime initiative, that individuals found with stolen cars and guns, or found with Glock switches, can pose a danger and must be dealt with accordingly.
We trust the TBI to conduct a thorough investigation. Once it's concluded, we’ll review the findings to determine appropriate next steps. “
Cleotha Abston, Accused of Sexaully Assaulting a Woman in 2021, Found Guilty
Today, Cleotha Abston, accused of sexually assaulting Alicia Franklin in 2021, was found guilty after a three-day trial.
Shelby County, TN - Today, Cleotha Abston, accused of sexually assaulting Alicia Franklin in 2021, was found guilty after a three-day trial.
The jury returned guilty verdicts on aggravated rape, aggravated kidnapping, and unlawful possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. During the trial, five witnesses provided testimony, including Abston's girlfriend at the time of the crime, who was also pregnant with his child.
Abston is also charged with first-degree murder, especially aggravated kidnapping and tampering with evidence in Eliza Fletcher’s death, which happened one year before Franklin's assault. Abston faces the death penalty in that case.
Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman handled this case along with ADA Brittany Neal.
Shelby County District Attorney's Office Secures Prestigious $300,000 Grant
The Shelby County District Attorney's Office has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the congressional Byrne Discretionary Grant Program, making the office the sole recipient in Tennessee and one of only 44 agencies nationwide to receive the prestigious grant.
Shelby County, TN - The Shelby County District Attorney's Office has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the congressional Byrne Discretionary Grant Program, making the office the sole recipient in Tennessee and one of only 44 agencies nationwide to receive the prestigious grant.
This federal funding, part of Congressman Steve Cohen's (TN-9) Appropriations measure, is directed towards prioritizing community projects within Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District.
District Attorney Mulroy expressed gratitude for the substantial grant, highlighting its potential to profoundly impact victim advocacy and operational efficiency within the office.
"This significant funding opportunity signifies a pivotal moment for our office's ability to support victims and optimize our operations," remarked DA Mulroy. "Credit is due to Congressman Cohen for his instrumental role in getting this through.”
Administered by the U.S. Office of Justice/Office for Victims of Crime, this grant will provide support to the Shelby County DA's Office providing resources to empower victims and witnesses while addressing critical challenges such as case backlogs and data processing efficiency. By bolstering resources for victim assistance and streamlining operations, these funds will play a pivotal role in upholding justice and public safety throughout Shelby County.
The Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grants Program is renowned for its contributions to local justice systems, providing essential support for training, technical assistance programs, and strategic initiatives tailored to address unique community needs.
DA Mulroy Sends Strong Message to Criminals: No Tolerance for Threats to Public Safety
During a routine press conference today, District Attorney Mulroy, flanked by local law enforcement officials, issued a resolute declaration to criminals: any behavior that jeopardizes public safety will not be tolerated.
This message comes in the wake of updates provided by the office on its Fast Track Violent Crime initiative, known as V11. Launched in January 2024, V11 strategically targets 11 violent crimes for prioritized and rigorous prosecution. Since its inception, the DA's Office has identified 411 cases for special V11 priority, accounting for at least 15 percent of the felonies observed during this period.
Of these cases, over half have already progressed through General Sessions and are now slated for adjudication in Criminal Court, a testament to the office's unwavering commitment to expeditious legal proceedings.
Highlighting the efficacy of V11, District Attorney Mulroy referenced the recent case of Roderick Harvey, currently incarcerated on charges of Rape and Kidnapping. Through the monitoring of jail communications, prosecutor Forrest Edwards intercepted conversations wherein Harvey discussed plans for further violent acts and illicit drug transactions aimed at financing his bond. ADA Edwards promptly alerted law enforcement, leading to the court's successful revocation of Harvey's bond on Monday.
"This case is just one example of the vigilance and rapid response that defines our approach under V11," stated DA Mulroy. "We maintain zero tolerance for violent crime. Ensuring public safety is our paramount duty, and we are steadfastly targeting dangerous offenders. Our objective is clear: to detain these individuals pending trial and ensure they face the full consequences of their actions."
Joining District Attorney Mulroy at the press conference were Shelby County Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner and MPD Homicide Commander Major Renwick Cowans, underscoring the collaborative effort between the DA's Office and local law enforcement agencies in combating violent crime and safeguarding the community.
Major Fentanyl Bust on I-40: Texas Couple Arrested with 85 Pounds Hidden in Vehicle
Shelby County, TN— On the evening of March 10th, 2024, agents from the West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force of the 30th Judicial District in Memphis conducted a traffic stop on a 2024 Toyota Tacoma with Florida registration, traveling eastbound on I-40 due to a traffic violation.
Shelby County, TN— On the evening of March 10th, 2024, agents from the West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force of the 30th Judicial District in Memphis conducted a traffic stop on a 2024 Toyota Tacoma with Florida registration, traveling eastbound on I-40 due to a traffic violation.
During the stop, law enforcement agents developed reasonable suspicion to employ a narcotics canine around the vehicle. Upon receiving a positive alert for the odor of narcotics, the agents proceeded to search the vehicle, discovering 38.5 kilograms (85 pounds) of Fentanyl concealed within bags of fertilizer and folded inside a tent placed within a tent bag. Ernesto Ortiz, 42, and Maria Munoz-Arevalo, 25, from Humble, TX, were arrested on charges of delivering a Schedule II controlled substance and are currently held at the Haywood County Jail under a $5,000,000.00 bond. The wholesale value of these drugs is approximately $1m, while the street value could approach nearly ten times that amount. The investigation is ongoing.
“Fentanyl can be deadly with as little as 2.0 milligrams able to cause an overdose. The CDC website shows Tennessee to be ranked 2nd among overdose deaths in the United States in 2021 at 56.1 people per 100,000,” said Drug Task Force Director Johnie Carter.
The West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force is comprised of full-time officers assigned from agencies within the 28th, 29th, and 30th Judicial Districts. These districts encompass Shelby, Haywood, Crockett, Gibson, Dyer, and Lake counties in west Tennessee and operate through agreements between District Attorneys Mulroy, Agee, and Goodman.
Man Convicted in Middle School Burglary After CrimeStoppers Tip
After a three-day trial, Antonio Brown was found guilty of burglary of a building, accused of unlawfully entering Grandview Heights Middle School on December 7, 2021, and stealing various items.
Shelby County, TN—After a three-day trial, Antonio Brown was found guilty of burglary of a building, accused of unlawfully entering Grandview Heights Middle School on December 7, 2021, and stealing various items.
The charges against Brown originated from a CrimeStoppers tip prompted by someone familiar with the defendant who alleged that Brown was captured in surveillance video footage. The video showed Brown leaving the school premises with two carts loaded with stolen property, assisted by a red two-wheeled dolly.
Acting on the tip, MPD presented the tipster with a six-person photo lineup. They positively identified Brown as the individual shown in the incriminating video, resulting in his subsequent charge and conviction for burglary.
The tipster also reported that Brown allegedly tried to sell them a laptop adorned with school stickers, but she declined to purchase it.
The jury returned a guilty verdict on March 7. Sentencing for Brown is scheduled for April 8.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Fredricka Brown and Paul Lichlyter.
Local Convenience Store Shut Down After DA’s Office Declares it a Public Nuisance
Shelby County, TN— The Shelby County District Attorney's Office has officially declared Gas Express (3465 Lamar Avenue) a public nuisance—after an extensive investigation conducted by the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit. In a coordinated effort on Wednesday, February 28, the establishment was shut down by MPD.
Shelby County, TN— The Shelby County District Attorney's Office has officially declared Gas Express (3465 Lamar Avenue) a public nuisance—after an extensive investigation conducted by the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit. In a coordinated effort on Wednesday, February 28, the establishment was shut down by MPD.
Beginning in October 2021 and concluding in January 2024, detectives from the MPD’s Organized Crime Unit conducted the comprehensive investigation into Gas Express. Numerous community complaints had been received, citing disturbances and rampant violence on the premises. Throughout the investigation, MPD responded to a total of 903 calls and completed 189 reports, encompassing incidents such as aggravated robbery, homicides, carjacking, theft from motor vehicles, prostitution, aggravated assaults, drug violations, and weapon violations. Within the two-year investigation, officers made 93 arrests on the property.
After Detectives concluded the investigation, the findings were presented to the Shelby County DA’s Office for review. On February 27, the Shelby County Criminal Court granted a temporary injunction/restraining order against the establishment—temporarily closing the business and deeming it a Public Nuisance.
On Wednesday, Assistant District Attorney Forrest Edwards of The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office and Assistant City Attorney Constance Brown of the City Attorney’s Office joined representatives from MPD, Memphis Fire Department, Department of Agriculture, and Shelby County Code Enforcement to serve the injunction.
“This is another good example of partnerships with law enforcement,” said DA Mulroy. “Our office is determined to shut down these breeding grounds for crime to protect neighbors' quality of life and to make sure that those responsible for the crime are held accountable.”
MPD Chief Cerelyn “CJ’ Davis underscored the importance of collaboration across agencies to combat crime.
"We appreciate this continued partnership with the Shelby County District Attorney's Office in identifying businesses that facilitate crime,” said Chief Davis. “We value the court's involvement in addressing and correcting identified issues. When shopping and visiting these businesses, Memphis residents deserve a safe environment.”
During Wednesday’s operation, three individuals were taken into custody by MPD, and felony drugs along with a weapon were discovered on the premises. The store also failed the Department of Agriculture inspection and received citations from the Memphis Fire Department and Shelby County Code Enforcement for numerous violations.
The owners of Gas Express are scheduled to appear in Shelby County Environmental Court on March 5.
Man Found Guilty of 2022 Murder of Girlfriend
Shelby County, TN— Following a week-long trial, a jury has found Byron Pipkin guilty of the 2022 murder of his girlfriend, Marquicha Thomas.
Shelby County, TN— Following a week-long trial, a jury has found Byron Pipkin guilty of the 2022 murder of his girlfriend, Marquicha Thomas. The trial, which concluded on Saturday, saw a culmination of evidence and testimony that led to a guilty verdict on all charges: First Degree Premeditated Murder, Especially Aggravated Kidnapping, Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm- prior violent felony (B felony), Possession of a Firearm during the Especially Aggravated Kidnapping, and Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm- prior felony (E felony).
On June 30, 2022, Pipkin allegedly shot and killed Thomas at a residence in Cordova, taking her now 7-year-old child (six at the time of the offense) and fleeing the scene.
During the trial, three children testified: a 12-year-old (10 at the time of offense), an 11-year-old (9 at the time of offense), and a 7-year-old (6 at the time of offense). The now 12-year-old, who witnessed his mother gunned down by the defendant in their front yard, played a crucial role in providing evidence. The prosecution established that after Pipkin shot the victim, he then moved her body into the garage, where the 12-year-old was hiding in a car. Following the incident, Pipkin fled the scene with the now 7-year-old child.
He eventually left the child at the residence of a friend of a family member before being captured the next day after a tense 3-hour standoff with SWAT at a motel in Memphis.
Assistant District Attorneys Leslie Byrd and Alanda Dwyer prosecuted the case. With over 30 years of experience as an attorney, Dwyer swiftly enlisted the assistance of a firearm expert to bolster the state's case.
Pipkin is scheduled to be sentenced on April 1, 2024.
Man Convicted of First Degree Murder and Abuse of a Corpse After Beheading Roommate
Julian Summers was convicted of First Degree Murder and Abuse of a Corpse for the death of Bruce Jefferies. On December 12, 2021, Summers assaulted Jefferies, striking him in the head with a hammer while Jefferies slept in their shared apartment.
Shelby County, TN— Julian Summers was convicted of First-Degree Murder and Abuse of a Corpse for the death of Bruce Jefferies. On December 12, 2021, Summers assaulted Jefferies, striking him in the head with a hammer while Jefferies slept in their shared apartment. Following the brutal attack, Summers proceeded to decapitate Mr. Jefferies with a knife. After cleaning up the crime scene, Summers placed Jefferies's lifeless body into a suitcase.
Surveillance footage captured Summers dragging the heavy suitcase through Broadmoor Apartments towards a dumpster, leaving a trail of blood in his wake. Unable to dispose of the evidence at the first dumpster, he carried it to another location. Concerned citizens and officers discovered Mr. Jefferies's remains later that night. Summers was apprehended and admitted to the crime 16 days after the incident.
During the trial, the jury viewed a recorded statement in which Summers confessed to the murder. However, he provided a conflicting testimony during the trial, offering a different version of events than his initial statement to the police three years earlier. The defendant raised the issue of his mental state at the time of the confession. In response, the state presented a rebuttal witness from West Tennessee Mental Health Institute who attested to the defendant's competency and asserted that Summers was malingering—exaggerating mental health symptoms.
The jury deliberated and returned a verdict on Friday, February 16. Regina Lucreziano and Katie Ratton prosecuted the case.
DA Mulroy to Host First Town Hall of the Year in Whitehaven
Shelby County, TN— District Attorney Steve Mulroy is set to resume his series of community town hall meetings on February 21, commencing with the first event of the year in Whitehaven
Shelby County, TN— District Attorney Steve Mulroy is set to resume his series of community town hall meetings on February 21, commencing with the first event of the year in Whitehaven. These public forums serve as a vital platform for the DA to engage with residents—offering updates on the office's public safety initiatives while actively listening to feedback and addressing concerns from the community.
Having hosted town halls in Frayser and Germantown, the District Attorney plans to extend these informative sessions to various communities across Shelby County. The upcoming town hall in Whitehaven will specifically cater to the area's residents, but all Shelby County residents are welcome to attend.
The event is scheduled at the Southbrook Town Center at 1254 E Shelby Dr, Memphis, TN 38116, starting at 5:30 PM. This provides an excellent opportunity for community members to connect with the District Attorney, gain insights into ongoing public safety initiatives, and voice their thoughts on matters that concern them.