CASE OF THE DAY: Guilty Verdict and Maximum Sentence in Attempted Murder Case
Shelby County, TN—On May 15, 2025, a jury found Felix Tate guilty of Criminal Attempt First Degree Murder and Employing a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony. At his June 17 sentencing, Assistant District Attorney Alyssa Hennig urged the court to impose the maximum penalty, citing the severity of the victim’s injuries and Tate’s long history of abuse.
Judge Carlyn Addison agreed, noting Tate’s more than 50 prior arrests and a decade-long pattern of terrorizing the victim, Adrianne Hardin. She sentenced him to the maximum: 31 years at 100% — 25 years for the attempted murder charge and 6 years for the firearm offense.
The charges stem from an incident in which Tate shot Hardin twice in the head and once in each leg. She survived after being revived at Regional One. Surveillance footage showed Tate beating her while she was incapacitated. Her 12-year-old daughter, who witnessed the shooting, was left alone in the home for two days before calling for help. At trial, Hardin testified to enduring years of abuse by Tate.
West Tennessee Drug Task Force Backs Crime Lab Proposal, Commits Up to $200,000
As part of its commitment, the DTF pledged up to $200,000 to help purchase a rapid DNA machine. That funding would follow a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the County, which would grant the Task Force access to the lab’s forensic services for drug-related investigations and prosecutions.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shelby County, TN —The West Tennessee Drug Task Force (DTF) voted to support a pending proposal to fund a new crime lab that strengthens capabilities in three critical areas: rapid DNA analysis, digital forensics, and ballistics.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris jointly introduced the proposal, which the Shelby County Board of Commissioners is currently reviewing. If commissioners approve it, the county will establish a dedicated forensic facility to address urgent public safety and investigative demands.
“We’re putting forward a proposal for recurring funding to build a forensic crime lab focused on rapid DNA, ballistics, and digital evidence,” said DA Mulroy. “The vote is Monday, and the decision now rests with the County Commission. I encourage residents to contact their commissioners and urge them to support this critical investment in public safety.”
As part of its commitment, the DTF pledged up to $200,000 to help purchase a rapid DNA machine. That funding would follow a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the County, which would grant the Task Force access to the lab’s forensic services for drug-related investigations and prosecutions.
“We’re putting forward a proposal for recurring funding to build a forensic crime lab focused on rapid DNA, ballistics, and digital evidence,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “The vote is Monday, and it’s now in the hands of the County Commission. I encourage residents to reach out to their commissioners to voice their support—this is a critical investment in public safety.”
As part of its support, the DTF has agreed to contribute up to $200,000 toward the purchase of a rapid DNA machine, contingent upon the proposal’s passage. This contribution would be made pursuant to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the County, allowing the Task Force to utilize the lab’s forensic facilities for drug-related investigations and prosecutions.
“I fully support Shelby funding a local crime lab,” said Frederick H. Agee, DTF Board member and District Attorney for Crockett, Haywood, and Gibson Counties. “TBI does amazing work; however, their resources, while improved over the years, are limited, with lots of unmet need in Shelby and West Tennessee. The County Commissioners have an opportunity to right the ship. Being a rural prosecutor, I see this benefiting all West Tennessee, because some of TBI’s burden will be lifted which should increase efficiency for getting cases particularly violent crimes solved and resolved quicker.”
The proposal was discussed most recently this week in joint meetings with Mayor Harris and DA Mulroy as they continued to advocate for advancing forensic science and accelerating case resolutions. The final vote will take place on Monday, June 23.
Man Sentenced to Life Plus 15 Years for Brutal Murder of Girlfriend
Nocomus Harris has been sentenced to life in prison plus 15 years for the 2022 murder of his girlfriend, Carlotta Wilson, following a jury’s guilty verdict in April. Harris was convicted of First Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence, crimes that left the community shaken by their brutal nature.
Shelby County, TN – Nocomus Harris has been sentenced to life in prison plus 15 years for the 2022 murder of his girlfriend, Carlotta Wilson, following a jury’s guilty verdict in April. Harris was convicted of First Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence.
On Monday, a Shelby County Criminal Court judge imposed the maximum sentence, agreeing with Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Alyssa Hennig’s argument. Harris received:
Life in prison for First Degree Murder
15 years at 60% for Tampering with Evidence, to run consecutively
Both counts will also run consecutively to a separate case in which Harris was on probation in Jackson, Missouri, where he now faces an additional 7-year sentence
His total effective sentence across all cases is life plus 22 years.
According to reports, Harris slit the throat of Ms. Wilson, his girlfriend, and left her in a pool of blood inside her apartment, a belt wrapped around her neck. At the time, Ms. Wilson was babysitting a 1-year-old boy, who was left strapped in a swing for hours after the killing. Thankfully, the child was unharmed and found by first responders.
Ms. Wilson’s brother found her deceased and called 911. By then, Harris had already fled the scene in the victim’s car, taking her phone and later discarding it along a Missouri highway. He attempted to hide the vehicle on a gravel road near the Tennessee-Missouri border.
Assistant District Attorneys Monica Timmerman and Alyssa Hennig successfully prosecuted the case in April, securing a conviction that brings justice for the victim and her family.
$5 Million Bonds Set for Two Defendants in Double Homicide
La'Cameron Jenkins and Martavious Jenkins were each issued a $5 million bond today during their first court appearance in Memphis following their arrests in Marietta, Georgia
Shelby County, TN – La'Cameron Jenkins and Martavious Jenkins were each issued a $5 million bond today during their first court appearance in Memphis following their arrests in Marietta, Georgia. The pair were taken into custody by U.S. Marshals on May 9 at a reported drug house and later extradited to Shelby County.
The charges stem from an April shooting on Cleoford Drive that left two people dead and one seriously injured. Police say the defendants arrived armed at the home of Lorenzo Cross’s girlfriend, Jasmine Ellington, accompanied by others. Upon being told to leave by a family member, they reportedly advanced toward the home, prompting warning shots into the air from two individuals already present.
Despite the warnings, the defendants opened fire, killing Jasmine Ellington, 26, and Michael Ellington, 25. A 41-year-old woman was also struck and seriously injured. At the time of the shooting, seven people—including two children—were outside the home.
According to investigators, the suspects continued firing as they fled the scene by car.
At today’s bond hearing, the judge deemed both men to be dangers to the community and flight risks, resulting in the high bond amounts.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Guilty Verdict in Fatal Domestic Shooting That Claimed Young Woman’s Life
A Shelby County jury has found Randy Johnson guilty of Second-Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence in the February 2023 shooting death of 25-year-old Jazmin Jones.
Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found Randy Johnson guilty of Second-Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence in the February 2023 shooting death of Jazmin Jones.
Jones was found shot and left for dead in the driveway of a home after what investigators say was a domestic dispute turned deadly. According to police and eyewitness testimony, Johnson—who had a prior relationship with Jones—shot her from inside his car, fired out the driver’s side window, and drove off. He then moved her vehicle to a neighboring driveway before fleeing the scene.
Prosecutors Monica Timmerman and Regina Lucreziano led the case for the State, calling more than 17 witnesses to the stand, including members of Jones’ family, law enforcement officers, and forensic experts.
Despite the case being largely circumstantial, Assistant District Attorneys Timmerman and Lucreziano methodically laid out the evidence, including key cellphone data. A digital forensic expert testified that Johnson’s phone was active at his home both before and after the shooting and showed flashlight activity in the hours following the crime. That activity, the State argued, aligned with their theory that Johnson entered the wooded area behind his residence to dispose of the murder weapon.
“This was a tough case, but justice prevailed,” said ADA Timmerman. “We are glad that a jury held Randy Johnson accountable for his actions.”
Sentencing for Johnson is scheduled for July 30.
Man Accused in Multi-City Car Thefts Held on $500,000 Bond
A 19-year-old man tied to car thefts in both Nashville and Memphis is being held on a $500,000 bond after Shelby County prosecutors argued he poses a continued threat to public safety.
Shelby County, TN– A 19-year-old man tied to car thefts in both Nashville and Memphis is being held on a $500,000 bond after Shelby County prosecutors argued he poses a continued threat to public safety.
Bryun Watkins is charged with theft of property over $60,000 and vandalism after police say he stole a RAM TRX truck from Memphis on May 9. While the incident is considered nonviolent, Assistant District Attorney Cody Tolbert told the court Watkins' extensive juvenile record — which can now be considered under a new Tennessee law — warranted the high bond amount. After hearing the State’s argument, the judge agreed and issued a bond of $500,000.
Watkins also faces a pending charge in Nashville related to a separate car theft involving four other suspects.
The investigation remains ongoing.
ADA Cody Tolbert handled the hearing.
Judge Denies Bond for Teen Charged in Deadly Shooting Near High School
An 18-year-old charged in a deadly double shooting near Booker T. Washington High School will remain in jail without bond following a preliminary hearing held today.
Shelby County, TN – An 18-year-old charged in a deadly double shooting near Booker T. Washington High School will remain in jail without bond following a preliminary hearing held today.
Valdemar Patterson was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the April 24th killings of two students. Despite the defense requesting that a bond be set, Assistant District Attorney William Walsh argued against it, citing public safety concerns and the seriousness of the charges. The judge agreed, found probable cause, and ordered Patterson held without bond. The case is now headed to a grand jury for indictment.
Police say on April 24th, an Infiniti vehicle pulled into the South City apartment complex at Mississippi Boulevard and Lauderdale. Surveillance footage captured four armed suspects exiting the car and walking through the complex before opening fire, striking both victims multiple times.
The victims were later identified as 17-year-old Christian Brown and 18-year-old Darrius Wadley. The shooting occurred just steps away from Booker T. Washington High School.
Authorities are still searching for additional suspects in the case.
For Media Inquiries:
Please contact Erica Williams at erica.williams@scdag.com
Man Pleads Guilty to 40 Years in Child Rape Case
The State was fully prepared to proceed to trial this week in the case against Eugene Jackson, who faced five counts of Rape of a Child, five counts of Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and additional charges including Rape by an Authority Figure.
Shelby County, TN – The State was fully prepared to proceed to trial this week in the case against Eugene Jackson, who faced five counts of Rape, five counts of Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and additional charges including Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure. On Monday, Jackson chose to plead guilty after being confronted with the state's overwhelming evidence, which included a videotape of the abuse and DNA evidence linked to a terminated pregnancy from the minor.
Jackson received a sentence of 40 years in prison at 100%, meaning he will serve the full sentence with no possibility of parole.
The abuse involved a minor female relative. Jackson— as a person in a position of authority, was also charged with Rape by an Authority Figure, Incest and related offenses.
The decision to offer the plea was made in consultation with the victim and her family.
Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Dru Carpenter and Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen handled the case.
Man Sentenced to 40 Years Following Conviction in Child Exploitation Case
David Pruett was sentenced on Friday to 40 years in prison with no possibility of parole, following his conviction in a 2019 case involving the sexual exploitation of a minor.
Shelby County, TN – David Pruett was sentenced on Friday to 40 years in prison with no possibility of parole, following his conviction in a 2019 case involving the sexual exploitation of a minor. The sentence was handed down by Skahan, who presided over the sentencing hearing and emphasized the seriousness of the offenses and the defendant’s lack of remorse.
Pruett was previously found guilty by Judge Skahan at the conclusion of a two-day bench trial in August. He was convicted of Rape of a Child, Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
During the sentencing, Judge Skahan cited multiple statutory enhancement factors supported by the trial evidence, including Pruett’s refusal to accept responsibility and disturbing jailhouse behavior. Notably, the Court referenced Pruett’s comments to fellow inmates in which he bragged about the offenses.
The charges stem from a 2019 incident in which Pruett photographed a minor engaged in a sexual act. The case was built on testimony from several key witnesses, including the victim, the victim’s aunt, responding officers, and Shelby County Criminal Investigator AJ Kant, who interviewed a jail informant. The informant revealed the location of hard drives that contained incriminating images, leading to a search conducted by MPD Sergeant Hutchinson. Testimony also included the keeper of records for the storage facility and jail calls.
Pruett will serve the entire 40-year sentence in the Tennessee Department of Correction without the possibility of parole.
The bench trial was handled by prosecutors Rob Steele and Dru Carpenter. ADA Steele handled the sentencing hearing.
Man Convicted of Rape in Case Involving Teenage Relative
A Shelby County jury has found Ladarrius Stokes guilty of aggravated assault for the 2020 attack of his 15-year-old relative. The assault occurred at a local motel just days after the victim’s 15th birthday.
Shelby County, TN – After a three-day trial, a Shelby County jury has found Ladarrius Stokes guilty of rape for the 2020 attack of his 15-year-old relative. The assault occurred at a local motel just days after the victim’s 15th birthday.
Despite the absence of DNA or physical evidence, the victim courageously testified, and her testimony was pivotal to securing the conviction. Prosecutors praised her strength and composure on the stand, calling her testimony "powerful and credible."
“This was a difficult case, but our office remains committed to pursuing justice in every case, especially those involving young victims,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “We are pleased with the verdict and proud of the victim’s bravery.”
Stokes, who faces sentencing at a later date, has two additional pending aggravated assault cases.
Special Victims Unit (SVU) Prosecutor Fredricka Brown handled the case.
Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Responds to Verdicts in Tyre Nichols Case
(Shelby County—TN) Today, a jury returned verdicts in the state trial of former Memphis Police Officers charged in the death of Tyre Nichols, who died following a violent encounter during a traffic stop on January 7, 2023. The verdicts mark a pivotal moment in a case that has deeply impacted our city, state, and nation.
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Shelby County—TN) Today, a jury returned verdicts in the state trial of former Memphis Police Officers charged in the death of Tyre Nichols, who died following a violent encounter during a traffic stop on January 7, 2023. Former Memphis Police Officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Justin Smith were found not guilty on all charges related to Nichols’ death.
The verdicts mark a pivotal moment in a case that has deeply impacted our city, state, and nation.
“We are disappointed in today’s verdict,” said Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy. “From the beginning, we believed the evidence supported the charges and pursued this case in the interest of justice and accountability. Tyre Nichols should be alive today. His death was a preventable tragedy that devastated his family and deeply affected our entire community.
We respect the jury’s decision and appreciate their service. While this is not the outcome we hoped for, our commitment to justice and to the people of Shelby County remains unwavering. I hope we can learn from this tragedy as Memphis continues to work to improve its policing practices. We remain committed to transparency, justice, and the work of building public trust. Our office will continue to pursue accountability wherever the facts and the law lead us.”
Background
On January 7, 2023, Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, was subjected to a violent encounter with members of the Memphis Police Department's SCORPION unit during a traffic stop. He succumbed to his injuries three days later. The incident, captured on video, sparked national outrage and calls for police reform.
Two other officers involved, Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin III, previously pleaded guilty in federal charges related to the incident.
Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman, Chief Prosecutor Melanie Headley, and ADA Tanisha Johnson.
Man Convicted of Second-Degree Murder in 2022 Shooting that Killed One, Injured Another
A Shelby County jury has found Mancellous Perry guilty of second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and other charges stemming from the 2022 shooting of two brothers in Memphis.
Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found Mancellous Perry guilty of second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and other charges stemming from the 2022 shooting of two brothers in Memphis.
Perry was convicted on Saturday following a four-day trial. The shooting occurred on August 19, 2022, after Perry got into a verbal argument with Joseph Faulkner and Jalen Faulkner. He briefly left the scene but returned shortly afterward and opened fire on both men.
Joseph Faulkner was pronounced dead at the scene. His brother, Jalen Faulkner, survived but was critically injured and transported to Regional One Health.
In addition to second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder, Perry was convicted for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
The trial was handled by prosecutors Brittany Neal and Leslie Byrd. Sentencing is forthcoming.
$1 Million Bond Set for Teen Charged in Deadly Tom Lee Park Shooting
Shelby County, TN – An 18-year-old woman accused of fatally shooting a teen boy during a food truck festival at Tom Lee Park last month is being held on a $1 million bond following a hearing today.
Shelby County, TN – An 18-year-old woman accused of fatally shooting a teen boy during a food truck festival at Tom Lee Park last month is being held on a $1 million bond following a hearing today.
Latoriania Lindsey is charged with first-degree murder in the April 13 shooting that occurred as the Foodees Food and Culture Festival was ending, according to Memphis Police. The victim was identified as Anthony Smith.
"This is the beginning of the process," said Chief Prosecutor Gavin Smith, who handled the bond hearing. "But we are pleased that the commissioner saw fit to set a bond in this case that took into account all of the required factors, including the unnecessary and blatantly violent nature of the case."
Court documents describe a chaotic scene where Smith and a female both allegedly brandished firearms during an argument. As the group dispersed, someone reportedly told Lindsey, “you are not going to do it in broad daylight!”
Witnesses said Lindsey approached Smith before firing. One witness claimed someone shouted, "If you don't shoot him, I will!" before the shooting occurred. Surveillance footage later showed Lindsey running from the scene.
Lindsey’s next court date is May 8.
Jury Convicts Man of Voluntary Manslaughter in the Killing of Memphis Woman
Shelby County, TN – After a short deliberation, a Shelby County jury found Samuel Ward guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of Paris Lee, concluding a case that revealed inconsistencies between the defendant’s claims and the physical evidence presented in court.
Shelby County, TN – After a short deliberation, a Shelby County jury found Samuel Ward guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of Paris Lee, concluding a case that revealed inconsistencies between the defendant’s claims and the physical evidence presented in court.
According to testimony, Ward went to Lee’s home, where a verbal altercation occurred. The victim, Paris Lee, asked Ward to leave. During the confrontation, Ward claimed that Lee pointed a gun at him while they were at the top of a staircase, causing him to fall backward. He told police that he then drew his own weapon and fired upward from the bottom of the stairs, striking Lee.
However, physical evidence and expert testimony from Medical Examiner Dr. D. Van Pelt contradicted Ward’s version of events. Lee was shot six times, and the trajectories of the gunshot wounds did not align with the defendant’s statement. Additionally, Ward had no visible injuries, undermining his claim of self-defense.
The prosecution presented a key witness, Tarik Hunter, Lee’s best friend, who testified about a phone call with Lee during the incident. Hunter told the jury he could hear Ward yelling in the background and that Lee repeatedly asked him to leave.
Ward’s conduct following the shooting also raised concerns. After firing his weapon, Ward left the scene and drove approximately 30 minutes to his home before calling 911—leaving Lee to die at the foot of her staircase. Testimony from the MPD officer, who initially interviewed Ward, confirmed this sequence of events.
Ward claimed self-defense throughout the trial, but the jury rejected his narrative and found him guilty.
Sentencing is scheduled for a later date.
Prosecutors Regina Lucreziano and Monica Timmerman handled the trial.
DA Mulroy Issues Statement on Fire at Historic Clayborn Temple
“Today, Memphis stands at a poignant crossroads, grappling with two profound events echoing the city’s complex history and enduring spirit.
“Today, Memphis stands at a poignant crossroads, grappling with two profound events echoing the city’s complex history and enduring spirit.
I’m so saddened to hear that a fire ravaged Clayborn Temple, the site of Dr. King’s last address. Despite early reports, I hope this historic and sacred space can be restored. Without the brave efforts of the Memphis Fire Department, things could have been even worse.
Meanwhile, we start the trial of police officers accused of killing Tyre Nichols. I’m hoping for justice for Tyre and a renewed awareness of the need for policing reforms as we strive toward better realizing Dr. King’s vision.
We meet setbacks in our journey to the mountaintop, but the climb continues.” - DA Steve Mulroy
Jury Convicts Man of First-Degree Murder and Robbery Related to 2020 Shooting
OnFriday, April 25, a jury found Anterious Miles guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and robbery in connection with the 2020 shooting death of Cartiere Johnson.
Shelby County, TN—On Friday, April 25, a jury found Anterious Miles guilty of two counts of First-Degree Murder and Robbery in connection with the 2020 shooting death of Cartiere Johnson. The incident occurred on March 5, 2020, outside a neighborhood store in the 2800 block of St. Elmo Avenue in Frayser. According to investigators, Miles and Johnson were standing outside the store when Miles allegedly grabbed a pistol from Johnson’s waistband and shot him multiple times. Johnson was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Miles was arrested on March 20, 2020, in Forrest City, Arkansas, and extradited to Memphis to face charges.
Although there was one victim, Miles was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder because the State presented two theories — felony murder and premeditated murder. Miles is scheduled to be sentenced on May 30, 2025, and faces a mandatory life sentence for the First-Degree Murder conviction.
Ceremony to Honor the Late Judge Donna Fields for Her Lifelong Commitment to Justice and Animal Welfare
Hollywood Feed, The Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County, and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office will host a special ceremony to honor the life and legacy of the late Judge Donna Fields, a fierce advocate for justice and animal welfare.
Shelby County, TN—Hollywood Feed, The Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County, and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office will host a special ceremony to honor the life and legacy of the late Judge Donna Fields, a fierce advocate for justice and animal welfare. The event will take place on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Judge Fields, who passed away last year, dedicated her career to public service, fairness, and compassion. Appointed to the 30th Judicial District Circuit Court in 2004, Judge Fields served with distinction after decades as a public defender and private attorney. In 2005, she was recognized nationally with the Spotlight Award from the National Association of Women Judges, honoring her outstanding service and leadership within the judiciary.
“Judge Donna Fields was a true champion for animals in our community. Her dedication to their welfare reflected the very heart of our mission, and we’re proud to honor her lasting impact,” said Ellen Zahariadis, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County.
Even after her retirement from the bench in 2016, Judge Fields continued her mission to seek justice by joining the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office in 2022, where she focused on prosecuting animal cruelty cases. Her unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable animals reflected her deep belief in the dignity and worth of all lives.
“Judge Fields set an extraordinary example of leadership, compassion, and service,” said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “Her work in animal welfare after retirement reflected the same passion for justice that defined her entire career. We are proud to honor her memory and her impact on our community.”
The ceremony will celebrate Judge Fields’ remarkable contributions to both the legal profession and the cause of animal welfare. Her legacy continues to inspire the Memphis and Shelby County community and beyond.
Event Details:
What: Ceremony Honoring Judge Donna Fields
When: Friday, April 25, 2025 | 11:30 a.m.
Where: Memphis Humane Society | 935 Farm Rd, Memphis, TN 38134
Hosted by: Hollywood Feed, The Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County, and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office
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Jaja Mani Found Guilty in Deaths of East Memphis Couple
Today, Jaja Mani, charged in the deaths of an East Memphis couple, was found guilty of two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Attempted First Degree Murder.
(Shelby County, TN)- Jaja Mani, charged in the deaths of an East Memphis couple, was found guilty of two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Attempted First Degree Murder on Friday.
The charges stem from an incident that happened in 2020. Police said the shooting occurred after Mani assisted in trying to intimidate victims, Emmanuel and Nancy MacDonal from testifying in a June 2020 shooting case in which their son was shot in the head. A man named Kevin Gomez was charged with Attempted Second Degree Murder in that case.
Police say that on November 12, 2020, the MacDonals were found dead next to their Ford Explorer on Patterson Street, and their son, Emmanuel Jr., was found critically wounded in the back seat.
Although Mani was not the shooter, the State presented pages of evidence and several videos to show his criminal responsibility that led to their deaths. The jury found Mani guilty, resulting in an automatic Life Sentence for the murders.
“We are pleased that the jury returned guilty verdicts to give justice to Emmanuel Jr. and the justice obtained for the death of his parents,” said Assistant District Attorney Steve Raglan who handled the case along with ADA Gavin Smith.
Sentencing for the additional charges is scheduled for May 16th.
The investigation is ongoing.
Bond Increased for Caregiver Accused of Neglecting Adults with Disabilities
The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office successfully argued for a higher bond Friday in the case against Bernice Jarrett, the caregiver accused of neglecting six vulnerable adults—one of whom has since died.
Shelby County, TN – The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office successfully argued for a higher bond Friday in the case against Bernice Jarrett, the caregiver accused of neglecting six vulnerable adults—one of whom has since died.
During Friday’s hearing, Jarrett’s bond was raised from $80,000 to $250,000 following a motion filed and argued by Assistant District Attorney Rob Steele.
Jarrett was arrested Tuesday after Memphis Police responded to a medical call around 9:50 a.m. at the Goodyear shop on 1200 Union Avenue. Officers found a yellow bus parked in the lot, attached to a trailer holding three live goats. Inside the bus, police discovered a driver and six passengers living in inhumane conditions without access to food or water. Five of the passengers were intellectually disabled, and one was reportedly suffering from dementia.
The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that one of the passengers later died.
Jarrett is currently charged with six counts of neglect of a vulnerable adult.
“This case is deeply disturbing,” said District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “The individuals involved were among our community’s most vulnerable, and they were subjected to unthinkable conditions. We will pursue accountability to the fullest extent of the law.”
The case remains under investigation.
Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Declares Fast Check a Public Nuisance: Temporary Injunction Filed Against Crime-Plagued Property on Winchester Road
Shelby County, TN – The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has filed a Temporary Injunction and Restraining Order declaring Fast Check, a gas station and convenience store located at 4580 Winchester Road, a public nuisance.
Shelby County, TN – The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has filed a Temporary Injunction and Restraining Order declaring Fast Check, a gas station and convenience store located at 4580 Winchester Road, a public nuisance. The legal action follows an extensive history of criminal activity at the property and seeks to immediately restrict operations while the case moves through court.
Between February 2023 and February 2025, the Memphis Police Department responded to 515 calls for service and completed 59 police reports at the location. These incidents include robberies, carjackings, aggravated assaults, drug and weapons violations, and a murder.
The most recent homicide occurred in February 2025, when officers discovered a male victim suffering from fatal gunshot wounds at the scene. The victim was pronounced dead on-site. Surveillance video helped investigators identify and arrest a suspect in the case.
For comparison, Lion Mart, a convenience store located directly across the street at 4625 Winchester, recorded 179 calls for service and 20 police reports in the same two-year period—underscoring the disproportionate criminal activity tied to Fast Check.
The property sits in close proximity to schools, churches, and residential neighborhoods, further amplifying the potential danger it poses to the community.
“This business has become a magnet for violence and illegal activity,” said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “The volume and severity of crime at this location is not only unacceptable, it’s a threat to public safety. We will continue to use every legal tool available to shut down properties that fuel violence in our neighborhoods.”
The injunction is part of the DA’s ongoing effort to hold property owners accountable and reduce crime through targeted public nuisance abatement strategies.