DA's Office Secures Another Guilty Verdict in Murder Case, Keeping Pace to Surpass Last Year's Trial Record

The DA's Office is still on pace to exceed last year's trial count after securing a guilty verdict in a first-degree murder case today-- one of several guilty verdicts the office has delivered in the past month.

After a five-day trial, a jury found Quante Webb guilty of first-degree murder in connection with a 2021 shooting at Oak Court Mall that claimed the life of a father and wounded a 9-month-old baby.

During the trial, the State presented testimony from 13 witnesses, including the defendant's girlfriend, to reconstruct the events that occurred on the day of the shooting. Reports show that on November 20, 2021, the defendant believed that the victim, Jayson Hill, was responsible for shooting his brother, although that had not been determined by law enforcement. He arranged for someone to follow Hill through the mall and alert him when Hill exited. As the victim stepped outside, Webb ambushed him, shooting him in the back of the head and arm, with one of the bullets striking the baby. Webb's girlfriend, a co-defendant, testified against him during the trial. After about an hour of deliberation, the jury returned a guilty verdict.

So far in 2024, the State has conducted over 45 trials—more than the total number of trials held in all of 2023. Approximately 92% of this year's trials have resulted in guilty verdicts.

"The number of jury trials alone may not be the ultimate measure of success, but it certainly reflects the hard work of our 120+ prosecutors who are dedicated to seeking justice for victims every day," said DA Mulroy. "I've made it clear to my prosecutors that I'm neutral when resolving cases through a guilty plea or a trial as long as the resolution is fair. The results of this trial and many others show that we are vigorously prosecuting violations of the law.”

The trial was handled by Chief Prosecutor Gavin Smith and ADA Alexia Crump.

Man Convicted of Rape of a Child and Incest for Sexually Assaulting Family Member

Shelby County, TN— On Wednesday, Jose Ruelas was found guilty of Rape of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Battery and Incest, following an intense three-day trial. Ruelas was arrested in 2022 after the victim's mother reported to authorities that her daughter, now a teenager, had disclosed that Ruelas had been sexually abusing her since she was seven.

In a previously recorded video shown by the state during the trial, the victim revealed disturbing details, such as the defendant showing her pornographic videos,  inappropriate touching, and other sexual acts within the span of several years. Ruelas has confessed to the allegations. After 40 minutes of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict on all counts.

“Although nothing will ever be able to take away the pain that our victim has faced, we are grateful that the members of the jury gave our victim the justice she deserves,” said Chief Prosecutor Gavin Smith, who handled the case along with ADA Alexia Crump. “We are humbled and honored to be able to help hold the defendant accountable on behalf of the people of Shelby County, but most of all, our victim.”

Ruelas is facing a sentence that could range from 25 to 58 years. Sentencing is forthcoming.

DA's Office Releases Statement after Courts ROR Alleged Railgarten Shooter

“We’re disappointed the suspect in the Railgarten shooting was released on his own recognizance.   In arguing against a bond reduction, we presented victim testimony, video of the shooting, and photos of the victim’s injuries. 

While we understand the rationale and respect the Court’s decision, we disagree with it. 

Going forward, we’re confident we’ll be able to prove our case and see that the defendant is held accountable for his actions. “

DA's Office Releases Statement After Federal Hearing Involving Suspect in Tyre Nichols Case

“Today, Emmitt Martin entered a guilty plea in federal court, which will lead to a substantial and well-deserved sentence. From the beginning, our office has closely coordinated our state prosecution with the federal prosecution. We expect that at the appropriate time, Martin will enter a similar plea in state court. 

This marks another important step toward closure for the family of Tyre Nichols.  While today’s development is significant, there is still more work to be done.  The public deserves confidence that those responsible for enforcing the law will be held accountable for excessive force.  We remain committed to this fight for justice for Tyre.”

Special Victim’s Unit (SVU) at Shelby County DA’s Office Secures Over 700 Years in Sentences in First Eight Months of the Year

Shelby County, TN – Earlier this month, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office reached a significant milestone, matching the number of trials conducted last year within just eight months. In 2023, we completed 42 trials, and as of this month, we have already reached that same number. While there is still much work ahead, our progress is undeniable.

Today, we are proud to spotlight the exceptional work of our Special Victims Unit (SVU), led by Eric Christensen. The SVU handles some of the most challenging cases, often involving our most vulnerable populations—children, elders, and others in need of protection. This year alone, the unit has taken 18 cases to trial, resulting in 15 guilty verdicts. These trials have collectively led to 511 years of sentencing, including a life sentence without parole.

Trials are just one measure of success. To spare families the strain of prolonged court proceedings and secure justice efficiently, plea agreements are often reached. In the SVU, there have been 12 guilty pleas this year, resulting in a total of 207 years of sentencing.

Today, we honor the incredible work of the SVU team. Although Eric Christensen could not be with us, we are fortunate to have the team here. We now invite Dru Carpenter to share insights into some of these significant cases.

Highlighted Cases:

Enoch Turner – A capital case where the defendant was convicted of stabbing his girlfriend to death, stabbing their 6-month-old baby 11 times, and setting the house on fire. The baby was still breathing at the time of the fire. The defendant received consecutive life without parole sentences. This case was handled by Eric Christensen and Paul Hagerman.

Antonio First – Convicted of Aggravated Child Abuse, Murder in the Perpetration of Aggravated Child Abuse, Aggravated Child Neglect, and Murder in the Perpetration of Aggravated Child Neglect. His two-year-old son, Brayton Brooks, was found unresponsive with extensive bruising and ligature marks. First has been sentenced to life in prison, with additional sentencing pending. The case was handled by Eric Christensen and Devon Dennis.

Tony Stafford – Sentenced to 25 years for the aggravated rape of an 18-year-old girl in 1988, a case that was successfully tried and convicted in January 2024. The victim was present and provided a victim impact statement. This case was handled by Dru Carpenter and Gavin Smith.

David Pruett – Found guilty in May of raping a child and photographing the crime in 2019. Pruett was convicted of child rape, especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. He is scheduled for sentencing on September 16. Rob Steele handled the case.

“We are proud of the dedication and hard work of the SVU and our entire team. Their commitment to justice ensures that our most vulnerable citizens are protected, and that those who commit heinous crimes are held accountable,” said DA Mulroy.

The SVU team consists of ADAs: Eric Christensen (Lead), Dru Carpenter, Venecia Patterson, Tanisha Johnson, Rob Steele, Katie Ratton, William Wetter, and Nicole Germain.

Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Issues Warning to James Lounge Following Double Homicide

Shelby County, TN – Today, the Shelby County District Attorney's Office issued a formal warning to the owners of James Lounge (3172 Summer Avenue)— an establishment located in the Binghampton neighborhood, following a double homicide that occurred on Tuesday night.

The warning letter, hand-delivered to the owners, outlines significant concerns about the establishment’s persistent criminal issues, including the recent tragic incident. It also indicates that the District Attorney's Office may seek a court injunction to declare the property a public nuisance, which could result in temporary or permanent closure.

The letter, signed by District Attorney Mulroy,  highlights the nightclub’s history of criminal activity, including a prior nuisance action in 2016. The letter demands the following immediate actions to address the situation:

1. Hire Sufficient Bonded Security: Employ adequate, licensed security personnel to effectively monitor and manage the premises.

2. Enroll All Surveillance Cameras in Connect2Memphis: Integrate surveillance systems with the city’s Connect2Memphis program to enhance real-time monitoring and data sharing with law enforcement.

3. Consider Temporary Closure: Assess the possibility of closing the establishment if it is unable to manage and control ongoing criminal activities.

District Attorney Steve Mulroy said, “Our primary concern is the safety of our citizens. We will not tolerate businesses that disturb our communities. We expect the owners to swiftly make the necessary changes to address these serious concerns. We are prepared to pursue further action if necessary.”

The investigation into related criminal activities at James Lounge is ongoing.

Man Found Guilty in Rape Case Involving a Minor

Shelby County, TN—  Today, David Pruett was convicted of Rape of a Child and several other offenses stemming from a 2019 incident where he photographed a minor performing a sexual act. During the two-day bench trial, the state presented several witnesses, including the victim’s aunt, the responding officer, the victim himself, forensic interviewer Pat Lewis, and Criminal Investigator AJ Kant, who interacted with a jail informant.

Further testimony was provided by the jail informant, who disclosed the location of Pruett’s hard drives as told by the defendant. Additional witnesses included the keeper of records for both the storage unit and jail calls, along with MPD Sergeant  Hutchinson, who discovered the hard drives and images on them. Ultimately, a judge found Pruett Guilty of Rape of a Child, Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder in Death of Teenager

Shelby County, TN—  Today, a jury convicted Travis Rogers of first-degree murder for fatally shooting a teenager at a Frayser service station on July 31, 2020. The state presented strong evidence during the four-day trial, including testimony from the defendant's mother, who reluctantly identified Rogers in a surveillance video. The evidence showed that Rogers, who was 18 at the time, approached 16-year-old Jamarion Williams while he was seated in a car at a Marathon gas station on Thomas Street and fired several shots.

The trial, handled by Chief Prosecutor Devon Dennis and ADA Shannon Toone, revealed that the shooting followed an earlier argument between Rogers and Williams. Surveillance footage captured the defendant fleeing the scene in a Mitsubishi Galant. Paramedics pronounced Williams dead at the location.

Within a week of the incident, police received a tip linking Rogers to the argument and identifying him as the shooter.

The jury returned a verdict of guilty in less than an hour. Sentencing for Rogers is forthcoming.

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Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder Sentenced to Life in Prison

 Shelby County, TN—  Darrell Peterson has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2020 murder of Patricia Bryant following the State's argument for the maximum allowable sentence. On Friday, Judge Chris Craft handed down the life sentence, additionally sentencing Peterson to 15 years for each count of attempted murder and ten years for employing a firearm during a felony. These sentences will run consecutively to the life sentence, resulting in an effective sentence of life plus 25 years at the Tennessee Department of Corrections.

During the sentencing hearing, one of the victim's family members delivered a poignant victim impact statement. The sentencing follows Peterson's conviction on May 31 for first-degree murder and other related charges.

During the sentencing hearing, the State argued for the maximum sentence based on several factors: the wishes of the victim’s family, Peterson’s extensive criminal history, community safety, and the severity of the offense. Judge Craft concurred with the State's position on consecutive sentencing.

This conviction and sentencing underscore the commitment of Shelby County DA's Office to ensure justice for victims and uphold public safety.

Assistant District Attorney Sam Winnig handled the case.

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State Successfully Handles Detention Hearing for Juvenile Co-Defendant in I-240 Shooting Incident

The State conducted a detention hearing today for one of the two juvenile co-defendants involved in the June I-240 shooting, that injured a family of five. One of the juvenile faces multiple charges, including Attempted First Degree Murder (7 counts), Carjacking (4 counts), Aggravated Robbery (7 counts), various firearm-related offenses, and Reckless Endangerment (3 counts). The District Attorney's Office successfully established probable cause for all charges, and the State's request for detention was granted. In preparation for this hearing, the State filed a Notice of Intent to Seek Transfer to criminal court.

Earlier this week, two adult defendants, Kendrick Ray and Lorenzo Watson, appeared in court, with their case proceeding to a Grand Jury for indictment. The incident, which occurred in June, involved the shooting of a family of five as they drove on the interstate.

DA Mulroy emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "This incident is troubling for several reasons, including the shooting taking place on the interstate and the fact that this group of violent offenders shot into a car where minors were present. We will do everything we can to ensure justice is served and all individuals responsible are punished appropriately."

The second juvenile co-defendant was detained on June 24, 2024. The two adult suspects remain behind bars on a $1 million bond.

ADAs Matthew John and Alanna Rice are handling the case.

Case Involving Interstate Shooting Suspects Headed to Grand Jury

 Shelby County-TN—Today, Lorenzo Watson and Kendrick Ray, the suspects in last month's I-240 shooting incident involving a father and his four children, had their preliminary hearing in General Sessions 13. After weeks of preparation by the State and testimony from nine witnesses, including the victim and father of the young victims, Judge Montesi found probable cause to proceed with charges against both the 18-year-old and 21-year-old defendants. These charges include, among others, six counts of Criminal Attempt – First Degree Murder.

“Our interstates are dangerous enough with reckless drivers; they shouldn't turn into shooting galleries,” said DA Mulroy. “We will take this case to the grand jury and beyond to seek appropriately severe punishment.”

Special thanks to ADA Alexia Crump for her leadership during the 3-hour-long hearing, ADA Division Leader Gavin Smith, and Victim Witness Coordinator Cynthia Miller for their diligent efforts.

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Jury Finds Man Guilty of Second-Degree Murder in 2018 Shooting

Shelby County-TN—Today, a jury found Keylone Jones guilty of Second Degree Murder for his involvement in a 2018 shooting. Jones, a juvenile then, had his case later transferred to adult court.  

The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, when Memphis Police Officers responded to an aggravated assault at 542 Jacklyn Ave. Upon arrival, officers found Michael Hawkins suffering from gunshot wounds. Hawkins was transported in critical condition to Regional One Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Through a thorough police investigation, Keylon Jones, known as "Nu Nu," was identified as a suspect. Jones was apprehended and brought into the Homicide office the following day. During questioning, he admitted to planning and participating in the shooting alongside two other juvenile defendants. Jones revealed that the shooting was an act of retaliation against a male who had allegedly shot at him the week prior. He confessed that he and his co-defendants approached the victim and fired multiple shots, resulting in Hawkins' fatal injuries.

Sentencing for Jones is forthcoming.

DA Mulroy Releases Statement on Court's Bond Decision for Defendant in St. Jude Doctor's Death

“On yesterday (June 18) in Criminal Court Division 2, counsel for Marious Ward petitioned the Court for a bond hearing.  The Defendant is charged with the killing of Alexander Bulakhov, a St. Jude doctor, in downtown Memphis, in front of his family on November 12, 2023. 

This is a violent gun crime against an innocent person with overwhelming proof. Our Office argued to the Court that the Defendant is a danger to the community, that the facts of the case are egregious, that the likelihood of conviction is exceptionally high, and that expected punishment equals or exceeds a life sentence.  The Court rejected these arguments and set bail at $275,000. 

As argued in Court, we believe this bond amount is insufficient and does not appropriately weigh the severity of the crime, the likelihood of conviction, and the danger to the community. We remain committed to this case and to justice and will ask the Court for a trial date. The case is next set for Jul 25, 2024. While we respect the court's decision, we strongly believe that the Defendant, while presumed innocent, should be held in jail pending trial.”

DA Mulroy Issues Statement On Program to Tackle Racial Disparities

“Asked about racial disparities at a forum last week, I said we were considering an as-yet-unformed alternative approach for nonviolent felons charged with possession of a weapon.  It wasn’t a formal program or policy, but just allowing prosecutors case-by-case discretion for nonviolent defendants who’d never used a gun and who seemed reformable.  However, after looking at the number of cases that qualify, I realize it would only be a handful of cases—not enough to help with racial disparities.  In light of that, and the concern I’ve heard from some (though by no means all) members of the public, I’ve decided not to pursue this idea. We’ll continue to work on ways to address racial disparities and continue to focus on violent crime. “

-DA Steve Mulroy

$3 Million Bond Set for Suspect in Deadly North Memphis Shooting

Shelby County-TN— TaMarius Barron, one of three individuals charged in connection with a fatal shooting in North Memphis in April, now has his bond set at $3 million. The decision was made by Judge Massey on Tuesday following a review of evidence presented by the State.

Barron is the second identified suspect in the shooting that resulted in the death of Troy Cunningham. The incident occurred in April near the Cavalier Court Apartments. According to reports, Barron, along with two accomplices, allegedly stole Cunningham’s gun and subsequently fired at him. A witness in court identified Barron as one of the shooters who fired at Cunningham as he attempted to escape.

The State typically advocates for higher bonds when a defendant is perceived as a threat to public safety. In this particular instance, the State has successfully argued for higher bonds, resulting in the judge setting a $3 million bond for each suspect involved in the case.

In May the state argued for a higher bond for co-defendant Jarius Hibbler—was also given a $3 million bond. A warrant was issued for a third suspect, Deario Wilkerson.

DA Mulroy Issues Statement on Aggravated Prostitution Prosecutions

“We have received questions about our agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on Aggravated Prostitution prosecutions.

To be clear, we have NOT agreed to stop prosecuting prostitution.   The normal prostitution statute remains at our disposal.  As does the separate statute making it a Class C Felony to knowingly expose another person to HIV including by sexual contact. 

We have agreed to stop setting aside HIV-positive prostitution for harsher treatment, even if that person is fully medicated, has a suppressed viral load, and is thus at no risk of infecting anyone.  To do otherwise would entail fighting DOJ in federal court for the right to discriminate when this office had not initiated such a case in recent years, and we have other means to go after prostitution.

It’s important to point out that the State Legislature this year recognized the perils of painting all HIV-positive people with a single brush: it passed a law allowing persons convicted under this very statute to get themselves taken off the Sex Offender Registry, presumably because of a pending DOJ federal lawsuit against the State.

We’ll continue to prosecute prostitution as we have in recent years, without LGBTQ discrimination.  More importantly, we will continue our laser focus on violent crime and other things that really matter, and avoid being tied up in cultural war distractions.” —DA Steve Mulroy

Jury Convicts Antonio First of Child Abuse and Murder in Death of Two-Year-Old Son

Shelby County, TN—  After just one hour of deliberation, the jury delivered guilty verdicts on Friday against Antonio First for Aggravated Child Abuse, Murder in the Perpetration of Aggravated Child Abuse, Aggravated Child Neglect, and Murder in the Perpetration of Aggravated Child Neglect.

The charges stem from the tragic death of First’s two-year-old son Brayton Brooks, who was found unresponsive and cold to the touch by paramedics on June 24, 2020. The child, who had been visiting his father for Father's Day, exhibited extensive bruising on his face, arms, legs, and abdominal area, along with ligature marks on his neck.

First called 911 after Brayton became unresponsive. Brayton was declared dead shortly after arriving at Lebonheur Children's Hospital. An autopsy revealed Brayton had suffered multiple areas of subdural and subgaleal hemorrhage in his head, a lacerated liver, and hemorrhage and perforation in his large and small intestines. Medical examiners concluded that Brayton, who weighed just 34 pounds, had been struck at least 24 times across his body.

Initially, Mr. First claimed that Brayton choked on cookies. He later shifted his story, blaming Brayton's mother, then the dogs, and finally his ten-year-old son, before ultimately admitting to striking Brayton multiple times with a closed fist and a sandal. The violence was purportedly in response to Brayton knocking over a WiFi box. Despite Brayton's immediate struggle to breathe, First waited over two hours before calling paramedics.

The five-day trial included testimony from 11 witnesses, presentation of 105 exhibits, and input from three expert witnesses.

"It was difficult material to review and show the jury, but we had to do it for Brayton,” said Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen, who handled the case along with Chief Prosecutor Devon Dennis. “What Antonio First did to him absolutely had to be punished to the fullest extent of the law, and we are proud to have accomplished that and achieved justice for Brayton, his mother, and his grandmother.”

ADA Dennis echoed ADA Christensen’s sentiments. “This was a huge conviction for the State and the reason that we all work into the nights and weekends is to get just for victims just like two-year-old Brayton Brooks who suffered a terrible, slow and painful death.”

First has received a life sentence for the murders. Sentencing for the abuse and neglect charges is scheduled for June 27.

Man Convicted for 2022 Murder of Ex-Girlfriend

Ladarrin Ceazer Convicted for the Murder of Ex-Girlfriend

Shelby County, TN—Today, Ladarrin Ceazer was convicted by a jury for the shooting and killing of his ex-girlfriend, Kiara Cooper, in September 2022. Cooper’s mother witnessed the tragic incident. Following the shooting, Ceazer fled the scene.

Anonymous tips led officers to an apartment complex in Millington, where Ceazer attempted to evade capture. A foot chase ensued, during which Ceazer managed to outrun the officers. During the chase, he discarded the firearm, which was later confirmed by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation as the murder weapon. Ceazer was apprehended within a few days in Arkansas and subsequently brought back to Tennessee.

After a three-day trial featuring testimony from 14 witnesses for the State, the jury found Ceazer guilty of the second-degree murder of Kiara Cooper.

“Today we got justice for the family of Kiara Cooper,” said Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Monica Timmerman who served as lead prosecutor on the case along with ADA Alicia Walton.  “A while back, Kiara's mother gave me a butterfly pin to represent her daughter who loved butterflies. At the beginning of the trial this week, my entire team wore a butterfly pin every day. While A jury verdict will not bring Kiara back to her family, hopefully they get a little closure and a sense of justice.”

Caezer’s sentencing is scheduled for June 21.

Deputy DA Paul Hagerman Issues Statement After Cleotha Abston Receives 80-Year Sentence

“We've been committed to justice for Alicia Franklin and Liza Fletcher since the awful crimes against them.  

After a trial last month, Cleotha Abston was convicted of the Aggravated Rape and Kidnapping of Alicia Franklin.  Today, my office asked for, and he received an 80-year maximum sentence with no possibility of parole.      

His violent history and these crimes demand sentences that ensure he'll get out of prison, ever.  This sentence alone ensures that—but we are not done.  The Fletcher case is now set for report on June 17th.  

Violent crime remains the focus of this office. The way these particular cases shook this community, and instilled fear warranted severe punishment. People who would break the law must know that we will do what it takes to bring them to justice and protect the community.”

Cleotha Abston is charged with kidnapping and raping Alicia Franklin in 2021. He is also charged with the alleged kidnapping and death of Eliza Fletcher in 2022.

Second Defendant in Murder of Phil Trenary Pleads Guilty to Second Degree Murder; Will Serve 35 Years

 Shelby, County, TN—Quandarius Richardson, the man charged with First Degree Murder in connection with the murder of former Greater Memphis Chamber President and CEO Phil Trenary, will serve 35 years behind bars with no chance of parole. Today, Richardson pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder. Despite not being identified as the shooter, the state proceeded with the plea agreement to ensure Richard’s accountability for his active involvement in Trenary's death. 

The co-defendant in the case, McKinney Wright, Jr. pled guilty to Second Degree Murder in December 2023 and remains behind bars.

“I’m glad we’ve resolved things regarding the last defendant in the tragic killing of Phil Trenary, a real loss to the community,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “This guilty plea forecloses any appeal or parole and, thus, hopefully, can bring some closure and finality to the grieving family. Given all the facts and evidence of the case, I consider this a fair resolution.”

Mr. Trenary's family was notified before finalizing the plea deal and supported the decision to move forward with plea aggreement.