Man Pleads Guilty, Sentenced in Firefighter’s Death Case

Jury Finds Brandon Isabelle Guilty in Murders of Danielle Hoyle and Infant Daughter Kennedy

Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found Brandon Isabelle guilty of all charges of the 2022 murders of Danielle Hoyle and her 2-day-old newborn daughter, Kennedy Hoyle.

Isabelle was convicted of two counts of First-Degree Murder, along with charges of Aggravated Child Abuse and Aggravated Kidnapping. The verdict followed nearly two weeks of testimony from more than two dozen witnesses presented by the State.

“This was an act of unspeakable violence that took the life of a young mother and her baby,” said DA Mulroy. “While no verdict can undo that loss, this decision ensures accountability and justice. We are deeply grateful to the jury, our prosecutors, law enforcement partners, and most of all to Danielle and Kennedy’s family for their courage.”

Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen and Assistant District Attorney Dru Carpenter led the trial team. According to testimony, Isabelle admitted to luring Hoyle to a location where he shot her before taking Kennedy and discarding the infant into the Mississippi River. Although Kennedy’s body was never recovered, prosecutors presented physical evidence, digital data, and witness testimony that convinced the jury beyond a reasonable doubt.

“This was one of the most difficult cases we have ever tried,” said Chief Prosecutor Christensen. “The brutality of the crime and the loss of an infant made this trial incredibly painful. We thank the family for their strength and the jury for ensuring justice was done.”

Family members, including Danielle’s mother, April Campbell, attended the proceedings and gave powerful testimony about the devastating impact of the crime.

Sentence Handed Down in Case of Fallen Officer Joseph McKinney

Shelby County, TN – Nineteen-year-old Devaron Taylor was sentenced today to 18 years in the Tennessee Department of Correction for his role in the violent encounter that claimed the life of Memphis Police Officer Joseph McKinney in April 2024.

Taylor’s sentencing brings a measure of accountability in a case that deeply impacted the Memphis Police Department and the community. During the hearing, members of Officer McKinney’s family delivered emotional victim impact statements, describing the pain of losing a son, brother, and protector — and the lasting void his death has left in their lives.

On April 12, 2024, Memphis Police officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle running and occupied in a field. The vehicle was later confirmed to be stolen. As officers approached, they observed the passenger, Devaron Taylor — then 17 years old — holding a firearm later determined to be a modified Glock equipped with an illegal “switch,” converting it into a fully automatic weapon capable of firing dozens of rounds in seconds.

When officers issued verbal commands to show his hands, Taylor turned and opened fire. Officer McKinney acted heroically, moving a fellow officer out of the direct line of gunfire. His quick action saved her life but placed him in harm’s way. He was struck and fatally wounded in the exchange.

TBI Ballistics evidence later indicated that the fatal shot that struck Officer McKinney did not come from Taylor’s weapon. However, Taylor’s actions directly triggered the gunfire exchange that led to Officer McKinney’s death, and he was held accountable for his role in creating the deadly confrontation.

“While the fatal round did not come from Taylor’s weapon, his decision to open fire on officers set in motion the chain of events that led to Officer McKinney’s death,” said a DA’s Office spokesperson. “No amount of justice can equal the loss of Officer McKinney, but the defendant has been held accountable for his role in the deadly confrontation.”

Even after the gunfire, the stolen vehicle fled the scene, placing more lives in danger. MPD officers acted swiftly to prevent further harm, ultimately taking Taylor into custody and ensuring he received medical care for his injuries.

Taylor, who was charged as an adult, appeared in Criminal Court Division 7 before Judge Lee Coffee. His sentence includes:

• Facilitation of Second-Degree Murder – 18 years (45% release eligibility)

• Aggravated Assault (2 counts) – 6 years (100%)

• Reckless Aggravated Assault (10 counts) – 4 years each (30% release eligibility)

All counts will run concurrently for a total of 18 years to serve, with no probation.

“Family and friends gathered in the court today to speak to the life of Officer Joseph McKinney,” said Chief Prosecutor Matthew Ian John who handled the hearing along with Chief Prosecutor Melanie Headley. “ They wanted him to be remembered as a hero. They also wanted his death to be a lesson that our justice system is still in need of repair. They were thankful to the courthouse for allowing gan opportunity to be heard and to keep Officer McKinney’s sacrifice alive for us all to remember the strive and dedication of law enforcement to protect the city of Memphis.”

The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office commends the Memphis Police Department for its professionalism, bravery, and swift action during and after this tragic event.

Jury Finds Former Gas Station Employee Guilty of Second-Degree Murder in 2023 Fatal Stabbing

Shelby County, TN – After a five-day trial, a jury found former gas station employee Joseph Smith, guilty of second-degree murder in the 2023 fatal stabbing of a man following an argument that escalated into violence.

Smith was also charged with tampering with or fabricating evidence, according to a Memphis Police report. The case was prosecuted by Chief Prosecutor Carrie Bush and Assistant District Attorney Joe Hamblen, who presented critical surveillance video footage to secure the conviction.

The incident occurred in March 2023 at the Exxon located at 186 N. Danny Thomas Boulevard. At approximately 5:30 p.m., Memphis Police officers responded to the scene and found a man dead outside the store from multiple stab wounds.

Smith, who was employed at the store, initially told police that he instructed the customer to remove a hoodie pulled over his head when entering. Smith claimed the customer then approached, pulled a knife, and cut him.

However, surveillance video reviewed by investigators contradicted Smith’s account. The footage showed the victim entering the store, lowering his hoodie, and beginning to select items from the shelves while exchanging words with Smith. Video further showed Smith moving aggressively toward the victim, leading to a physical struggle.

A witness attempted to intervene, but police say the victim fell to the ground with open hands before Smith unfolded a large knife and stabbed him in the stomach. The two men continued struggling, during which Smith stabbed the victim several more times while holding onto his clothing. The victim eventually collapsed outside the store entrance.

Investigators reported that the video also showed Smith moving the knife out of the camera’s view and attempting to clean blood from the store floor.

During a follow-up interview with investigators, Smith admitted to wrestling with the victim and acknowledged becoming angered before attacking. He told police he handed the weapon to another person before officers arrived on the scene.

The guilty verdict was returned on Friday, Sept. 26.

Trial Begins in 2022 Murders of Danielle Hoyle and Infant Daughter Kennedy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Shelby County, TN — The trial of Brandon Isabelle began this week in Shelby County Criminal Court. Jury selection took place Monday, September 22, and opening statements were delivered Tuesday, September 23., The State anticipates calling approximately 30 witnesses to prove its case. Based on the expected witness list and evidentiary presentation, the trial is likely to extend beyond this week and could approach two weeks in duration.

Isabelle is charged in the February 2022 deaths of Danielle Hoyle, 27, and her two-day-old daughter, Kennedy. He is facing two counts of first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse/neglect, and aggravated kidnapping.

According to prior case records and public reporting, investigators allege Isabelle lured Ms. Hoyle to meet in Whitehaven on February 1, 2022; officers soon located her car with a broken window and found Ms. Hoyle fatally shot nearby. An intensive, multi-agency search for infant Kennedy followed. Police affidavits and contemporaneous reports state Isabelle confessed to killing Ms. Hoyle and throwing Kennedy into the Mississippi River near Mud Island; Kennedy’s body has not been recovered. Isabelle has entered a not-guilty plea.

Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen and Assistant District Attorney Dru Carpenter of the District Attorney’s Special Victims Unit are leading the prosecution.

Jury Convicts Daireus Ice in 4-Year-Old’s Brutal Kidnapping and Rape

Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found Daireus Ice guilty on all counts in the 2018 kidnapping and rape of a 4-year-old girl—crimes prosecutors called “a parent’s worst nightmare.”

During the trial, the now 12-year-old victim bravely testified, recounting the assault and its enduring impact. Her mother and brother also provided testimony, while family members remained present throughout the proceedings, steadfast in their pursuit of justice.

Chief Prosecutors Devon Dennis and Lessie Rainey of the Shelby County District Attorney’s Special Victims Unit led the case.

“Although the facts and evidence in this case were especially horrific, I am grateful for the jurors’ service and ability to sit through proof the week rendering the only just result,” said Chief Prosecutor Devon Dennis. “ My hope is that the victim and her family can finally move forward knowing that both defendants will be held accountable. The parents and citizens of Shelby County are a little safer today, now that Dareius Ice has been convicted.

“We are pleased with the verdict and it would not have been possible without the hard work of our team,” added Chief Prosecutor Lessie Rainey. “We hope the victim and her family have some peace of mind going forward.”

Investigators testified that Ice recruited Antoine Wilson—who has already pleaded guilty to all charges and testified against Ice—to abduct the child from her front yard. Wilson sexually assaulted the child while Ice filmed the attack, later leaving her near her home.

The case took years to reach trial because it involved multiple co-defendants, three separate judicial assignments, and extensive DNA analysis.

Ice faces three additional pending cases involving similar allegations.

Trial Begins in Child Kidnapping and Rape Case; Co-Defendant Pleads Guilty to All Charges

Shelby County, TN – The trial of Daireus Ice began this week in a brutal child rape and kidnapping case that Shelby County prosecutors call “a parent’s worst nightmare.” Ice is accused of organizing, directing, and filming the sexual assault of a 4-year-old girl in 2018.

Prosecutors say the crime came to light when the mother of a victim related to another case discovered a disturbing video on a cellphone that Ice had used and returned.

Ice and co-defendant Antoine Wilson were arrested in 2018 and charged with Rape of a Child, Especially Aggravated Exploitation of a Minor, and Kidnapping. Investigators say the men kidnapped a 4-year-old girl from her front yard, where Wilson sexually assaulted her as Ice recorded the attack, then left the child near her home.

Wilson has pleaded guilty to all charges.

In opening statements of Ice’s trial, prosecutor Devon Dennis described the case as “a parent’s worst nightmare,” underscoring its severity. Prosecutors plan to call several witnesses, including a handwriting expert to confirm that Ice wrote letters boasting about the assaults, the 4-year-old victim’s brother—who was 5 at the time—and Wilson himself, who is expected to testify about how Ice recruited him and orchestrated the attacks.

Despite the noted delays caused by assignment to three different judges, extensive DNA testing, involvement of four co-defendants (related to other cases tied to Ice), and an ongoing investigation into the full scope and severity of the crimes, prosecutors emphasized they are prepared to seek justice and are confident they have the evidence to prove the charges in court.

Chief Prosecutors Devon Dennis and Lessie Rainey are handling the case and trial.

Board Rules Against Senator Taylor in Fifth Complaint Targeting DA Mulroy

Shelby County, TN—The Tennessee Supreme Court’s Board of Professional Responsibility dismissed Senator Taylor’s December 2024 complaint against DA Mulroy and the District Attorney’s Office. This latest dismissal follows four earlier complaints from Taylor—all thrown out after review.

DA Mulroy argued that Taylor’s complaint did not stem from any case or office policy, but instead relied on media reports and social media posts about reforms the DA had considered but never adopted.

“Sen. Taylor is now 0 for 5 on ethics complaints against me,” said DA Mulroy. “He’s complained about my resolution of two separate cases; made two separate groundless accusations of improper ex parte communications with two different judges; and now this. This has been a year-long distraction from my DA duties, and an abuse of the ethics complaint process. I hope this politicized harassment will stop, so I can focus 100% on doing all we can to help law enforcement keep Shelby County safe.”

Tennessee law keeps most juvenile court records confidential but allows judges to share them with parties who have a legitimate interest. Records of violent crimes committed by offenders over age 14 are also public. In addition, a separate statute permits juvenile “dispositions” to be used in adult court for sentencing, but not for any other purpose.

Taylor claimed DA Mulroy conspired with Juvenile Court Judge Sugarmon to break the law by letting adult court judges access juvenile records for bail decisions. However, Mulroy only consulted with Judge Sugarmon about the idea, relying on statutes that permit a juvenile judge to share records with officials who have a legitimate interest and that make certain violent crimes by offenders over 14 part of the public record.

The Board dismissed the case on July 30th, and with the 30-day appeal period expiring on August 29th, the matter is now fully closed.

Jury Convicts Man of Child Rape and Aggravated Sexual Battery

Shelby County, TN – On Thursday, a Shelby County jury convicted Gaudencio Lopez as charged of Rape of a Child and two counts of Aggravated Sexual Battery for sexually assaulting two of his minor family members.

Testimony revealed that Lopez abused one victim between the ages of 7 and 10 and her younger sister between the ages of 6 and 7. The abuse remained hidden for years until the younger victim disclosed it to her mother, leading her sister to also come forward.

During the trial, both sisters gave emotional testimony about the assaults they endured. Their mother described the frequent visits to Lopez’s apartment, her belief that her daughters were safe in his care, and the moment they finally revealed the abuse. Memphis Police Department Lt. Roderock Watson testified about the investigation he conducted.

The jury’s decision brought long-awaited justice for the victims and their family, who expressed relief and gratitude for the outcome.

“This guilty verdict means everything to these young survivors and their family. It delivers accountability and justice after years of silence,” said DA Mulroy. “We are grateful for the tireless work of our Special Victims Unit prosecutors, whose dedication made this outcome possible.”

Special recognition goes to the trial team whose work secured this conviction: Assistant District Attorney Robert Steele, who led the trial, along with victim witness coordinators Jacqueline Chacon and Shanika Stone, and paralegal Magen Houston.

Trial Date Set for Man Accused of Killing Ex-Girlfriend at Shelby Farms

Shelby County, TN – A trial date has been set for the man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend at Shelby Farms Park before leading officers on a multi-county chase.

Jackson Hopper appeared in court Monday, where prosecutors pressed for the case to move forward. His trial is scheduled to begin on February 9, 2026.

Hopper faces a first-degree murder charge in the October 2024 death of 22-year-old Ellie Young, who was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Shelby Farms Visitor Center.

Witnesses told investigators they saw Young’s Jeep parked in the lot when a white Honda CRV with Kentucky temporary tags pulled in behind it. Moments later, the suspect — later identified as Hopper — allegedly fired two shots into the back of the Jeep. As Young exited the vehicle, Hopper allegedly fired again, striking her as she lay on the ground. Police reports note that Young had recently ended her relationship with Hopper.

“The state is prepared to try Mr. Hopper's case and get the justice for Ellie Young that her family deserves,” said Assistant District Attorney Monica Timmerman who is handling the case along with Chief Prosecutor Lessie Rainey. “Ms. Rainey and I have been working closely with the Shelby County Sheriff's Office from the beginning to ensure that justice prevails here. We stand ready to seek and receive the justice.”

Hopper is due back in court on September 4 for a status hearing.

Ezekiel Kelly Sentenced to Three Life Terms Plus 200+ Years in 2022 Shooting Spree

(Shelby County, TN) — The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office announced today that Ezekiel Kelly has entered a guilty plea in connection with the September 7, 2022, mass shooting that left three people dead and three others wounded.

The plea agreement guarantees that Kelly will serve three life sentences plus more than 200 additional years, ensuring he remains incarcerated for the rest of his life, delivering long-awaited justice to the victims’ families while sparing them the prolonged and painful court proceedings often associated with death penalty cases.

Incident Summary
On September 7, 2022, Kelly carried out a series of violent acts across Memphis, killing:

• Dewayne “Amir” Tunstall

• Richard Clark

• Allison Parker

Three additional victims were wounded:

• LaKesha McGlathen

• Rodolfo Zepeda

• Randall Graham

The defendant faced more than 27 charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, terrorism, and carjacking.
Investigators gathered a vast body of evidence, including testimony from approximately 400 witnesses and more than 300 videos. The original trial date was set for July 14, 2025, but was postponed to allow additional time for evidence review.

Victim Families in Attendance at Plea Hearing:
Several family members were present for today’s proceedings, including:

• Michael Ford, fiancé of victim Allison Parker

• Sheila Finley and Sharmeen Miller, sister and niece of victim Richard Clark

• Randy Graham, victim in the carjacking and attempted murder counts

• Mike Summers, brother of victim Allison Parker

Statement from DA Mulroy:
“Death penalty cases can drag on for decades, keeping families stuck in the pain. This plea brings justice by making sure he’ll never be free, while also respecting what many victims have said—they’re ready to move forward. This plea brings certainty and finality to the families, who approve of this settlement and are ready to be done with litigation and move on. It avoids years if not decades of appeals. Most important, it makes certain that this defendant, who terrorized our entire city, will never see the light of day.”

Teen Suspect in 2024 Triple Shooting That Killed 93-Year-Old Woman Detained on $1 Million Bond

Shelby County, TN – Today, 18-year-old Derrion Taylor appeared for a detention hearing related to a triple shooting that left two people injured and claimed the life of 93-year-old Geraldine Harris. Taylor, who was 17 years old at the time of the offense, is charged in Juvenile Court for the January 17, 2024, homicide that occurred in the 1800 block of Kendale Avenue.

With his attorney present, Taylor faced arguments over whether he should be detained pending adjudication. The State called a Memphis Police Department Homicide Detective to testify and advocated for a substantial bond, citing Taylor’s danger to the community. Family members of the victim were present in court and joined virtually via Zoom.

The Juvenile Magistrate agreed with the State, ordered Taylor to be detained, and set bond at $1 million.

The detention hearing was led by Assistant District Attorneys William Yonkowski and Sanjeev Memula of the Juvenile Court Prosecution Unit.

Taylor was arrested on July 24, 2025, by the U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force at a residence in the 3000 block of Colony Drive in Memphis. In addition to the murder charge, Taylor also had outstanding adult warrants for other unrelated offenses at the time of his arrest.

The case remains under active investigation.

Jury Convicts Man in Rape and Kidnapping Case After Swift Deliberation

Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County jury has found 38-year-old Dontel Morgan guilty of two counts of Aggravated Rape and two counts of Aggravated Kidnapping for a violent attack involving both a knife and a handgun.

Investigators say Morgan approached an unknown woman with a knife, dragged her while threatening to harm her, and when she screamed for help, he rubbed the knife across her back. He then forced her into a secluded area, pulled out a handgun, and demanded she perform sexual acts before raping her.

The victim immediately called police after the assault. A sexual assault evidence kit was submitted to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which confirmed the DNA belonged to Morgan.

Following a three-day trial, the jury returned a guilty verdict on Friday in less than an hour. Prosecutors Dru Carpenter and Nicole Germain led the case, presenting key evidence and witness testimony. Victim Witness Coordinator Shanika Stone and Investigator Jim Byars also testified to support the prosecution’s case.

Morgan will be sentenced at a later date.

Jury Finds Roy Ezell Jones Guilty of Second-Degree Murder in Wife’s Death

Shelby County, Tenn. – Following a three‑day trial led by prosecutors Alyssa Hennig and Monica Timmerman, a Shelby County jury has found Roy Ezell Jones guilty of second‑degree murder for the fatal shooting of his wife, 49‑year‑old Juanita Jones.

Key case details:

• In January 2022, law enforcement responded to a domestic dispute on Burnham Avenue, where they found Juanita unresponsive after a gunshot was heard by a child in another room.

• The victim’s spouse, Roy Ezell Jones (in his 50s), reportedly confessed to the child, stating, “I did a bad thing.” He fled the scene and was arrested approximately one week later after surrendering to authorities.

• The State’s case included testimony from several witnesses, notably the child who heard the gunshot from the adjacent room. The prosecution was spearheaded by Assistant District Attorneys Alyssa Hennig and Monica Timmerman.

• After deliberation, the jury delivered a guilty verdict on one count of Second Degree Murder.

• Sentencing is scheduled for a later date. The victim’s family has expressed relief and gratitude for the jury’s decision.

Statement from the District Attorney’s Office:
“We thank the jury for their careful consideration of the evidence. The courage of the witnesses and the dedication of our prosecutors have reinforced our commitment to justice and public safety,” said a spokesperson from the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.

Court Backs DA Mulroy in Crackdown of Illegal Gambling Machines

Shelby County, TN — Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy, joined by law enforcement officials, announced today a major legal victory in the fight against illegal gambling operations. A three-judge panel of the Chancery Court ruled on July 14 in favor of the DA’s Office in Torch Electronics v. Mulroy, affirming that the company’s so-called “No Chance Games” (NCGs) are illegal gambling devices under Tennessee law.

The ruling follows a two-day trial in May and rejects Torch Electronics’ claims that its machines do not constitute gambling devices and that Tennessee’s gambling statutes are unconstitutionally vague.

“This is a win for public safety, consumer protection, and the rule of law,” said DA Mulroy. “The court made it clear: these machines are illegal, and we have the authority to go after those who profit from them. These operations are not just about games—they’re often linked to more serious crimes like money laundering and firearms offenses. We will continue to enforce the law to protect our communities.”

Torch Electronics, a Missouri-based company operating in Shelby County, had attempted to legitimize its operations by arguing that the NCGs were not subject to Tennessee’s gambling laws. The court’s ruling affirms that the DA’s Office and law enforcement agencies are well within their rights to crack down on these machines and associated activity.

Ongoing Enforcement Efforts

The DA’s Office and local law enforcement have already taken significant steps to target illegal gambling:

• Operation Casino Royale (July 2022–October 2023) led to:

  • 268 illegal gambling machines seized

  • Over $1 million in cash recovered

  • Multiple arrests and citations

• July 2024 Enforcement Action included:

  • Raids at 5 locations

  • $15,000 in cash seized

  • Ties to firearms and suspected money laundering

These efforts reflect a coordinated, multi-agency commitment to eliminating illegal gambling enterprises that exploit residents and contribute to broader criminal activity.

Next Steps

With the court's decision now on record, the DA’s Office will continue working with Memphis Police and other partners to dismantle operations involving NCGs and similar machines.

Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Appoints New Chief Data Officer to Strengthen Public Safety Through Smarter Data Use

Shelby County, TN — The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has appointed Robert “Bobby” Zipp as its new Chief Data Officer (CDO), reinforcing District Attorney Steve Mulroy’s long-term plan to use data as a critical tool to improve public safety, modernize systems, and promote transparency in the justice process.

Since taking office, DA Mulroy has prioritized building a stronger, more data-informed justice system—one that tracks outcomes, identifies gaps, and allows the public to better understand how the system is working. The appointment of Zipp marks a major step in advancing that vision.

Zipp succeeds Vishant Shah, who helped lay the foundation for the office’s current data systems and has now moved on to other professional endeavors. The Office thanks Shah for his contributions during a time of growth and transition.

Zipp brings deep experience at the intersection of data, technology, and criminal justice. As a former Product Manager at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, he led projects that modernized operations and improved prosecutorial workflows—experience he says is key to supporting Shelby County’s public safety mission.

“My goal is to ensure our office has the tools it needs to respond effectively to public safety challenges,” Zipp said. “When data is accurate and accessible, we can pinpoint what’s working, identify trends early, and make quicker decisions to keep our communities safe—and ensure we’re doing so in a way that’s consistent and fair.”

With a background in data science and artificial intelligence from Northeastern University, Zipp is also an advocate for responsible innovation, drawing on his involvement with All Tech Is Human and other ethics-focused tech organizations.

As CDO, Zipp’s top priorities include:

• Conducting a full assessment of the DA’s current data systems;

• Identifying top areas for automation and efficiency improvements;

• Strengthening data collaboration across law enforcement and court partners;

• And building a culture where data is used proactively to drive safety-focused outcomes.

“I’m most excited to help simplify and streamline the day-to-day work of our public servants,” Zipp added. “The more efficiently we operate behind the scenes, the more focused we can be on justice and public safety.”

District Attorney Mulroy called the role of CDO a vital part of his broader effort to modernize the office and bring more transparency to how justice is carried out in Shelby County.

“The road to improved prosecution lies through data—if we want to improve something, we’ve gotta measure it,” said DA Mulroy. “Bobby has already been working on data  in one of the largest and most influential DA offices in the country.  He understands prosecution, reform, and how data can inform both.  I’m glad he chose to come to Memphis.”

Local Rapper's Case Headed to Grand Jury; Remains in Custody on $5 Million Bond

Shelby County, TN— The case involving Andre Scott — also known as local rapper Boo TwoGunz — is now bound over to the grand jury following a waived preliminary hearing.

Scott is accused in connection with a shooting last month at a Frayser gas station, where investigators recovered a Sprite bottle with his fingerprints at the scene. The preliminary hearing was scheduled for June 30 in General Sessions Court Division 11, but Scott’s defense attorney waived the hearing, allowing the case to move forward to the grand jury for possible indictment.

Scott remains in custody on a $5 million bond.

Former Elementary School Teacher Convicted of Aggravated Sexual Battery

Shelby County, TN – Following a five-day trial, a Shelby County jury found former Winchester Elementary School teacher Kenneth Clay, Jr. guilty of two counts of Aggravated Sexual Battery on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Clay was employed as a 4th grade teacher and supervisor of the school’s After Care program during the fall of 2022 when the abuse occurred. According to testimony at trial, the victim—then a student in the After Care program—was forced to engage in explicit sexual acts with Clay on multiple occasions inside the school building.

In one instance, Clay isolated the victim in his classroom while another student acted as a lookout in the hallway. That student testified they opened the classroom door when they saw a teacher approaching and saw Clay zipping up his pants as the victim walked away from his desk. The student later informed their mother, who reported it to school officials.

The victim also testified that Clay inappropriately touched her on multiple other occasions, including another instance inside Clay’s classroom.

Clay resigned from his position at Winchester Elementary in December 2022 after the allegations surfaced. He was out of custody on a $250,000 bond at the time of trial. After the guilty verdict was announced, Judge Chris Craft revoked Clay’s bond, and he was immediately taken into custody. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 31, 2025.

A total of 11 witnesses testified over the course of the trial:

• The State called 7 witnesses during its case-in-chief: the victim, the victim’s mother, a school resource officer, the lead MPD detective, the victim’s friend, the friend’s mother, and the forensic interviewer who conducted the child’s forensic interview.

• The defense called 3 witnesses: two teachers from the school and the defendant himself.

• The State also presented one rebuttal witness, an additional MPD detective who was present during the defendant’s statement to police.

ADAs Robert Steele and Timothy Dye handled the trial.

Shelby County Makes Historic Move: Local Crime Lab Gets Green Light

Shelby County TN—In a landmark decision, the Shelby County Board of Commissioners voted on Monday to approve the first-ever locally funded crime lab in county history. Thanks to the joint initiative led by District Attorney Steve Mulroy and Mayor Lee Harris, the project will receive $1.5 million in initial recurring funds —covering year one—with the expectation of additional funding in year two.

This strategic investment builds on earlier endorsements, including support from the West Tennessee Drug Task Force, which pledged up to $200,000 toward rapid DNA equipment under a Memorandum of Understanding with the county.

Why this matters:

• Increasing Our Solve Rate: The lab will focus on digital forensics (especially cell phone); ballistics; and Rapid DNA analysis—the most critical forensic need in our investigations. This will allow law enforcement to make arrests in a higher percentage of reported crimes.

• Faster case resolution:  Enhanced local forensics can address a current forensic backlog, especially in ballistics.  The Rapid DNA will allow law enforcement to identify (or rule out) suspects quicker. 

“For the first time, Shelby County will have its own crime lab-a crucial first step in increasing our solve rate and lowering crime,” said DA Steve Mulroy.  “It’s not everything we asked for, but it’s an important start.”

CASE OF THE DAY: Man Charged with Murder in Medical District Shooting Held on $1M Bond:

Man Charged with Murder in Medical District Shooting Held on $1M Bond: During a recent bond hearing, newly appointed Assistant District Attorney Dijahanua Jones successfully argued for a $1 million bond against defendant Marcus Jackson, who is charged with first-degree murder.

The charges stem from a Medical District shooting on June 2 at 5:19 p.m., when officers responded to gunfire near South Camilla Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. Officers located the male victim, who had suffered gunshot wounds, and transported him to Regional One, where he later died from his injuries.

On June 6, authorities took Marcus Jackson into custody in the 900 block of College Park.