$1M and $750K Bonds Set for Two First-Degree Murder Co-Defendants in Broad Daylight Shooting

Shelby County, TN—The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office successfully argued for high bonds for two men charged in connection with a fatal broad daylight attack that left one man dead following what authorities describe as a personal dispute. Both defendants are charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.

Prosecutors allege that on February 28, 2026, Paul Wrushen was attacked in broad daylight after two men confronted him over a personal dispute. According to the allegations, the motive was simple and dangerous: “if he couldn’t have her, no one could.”

Prosecutors say the defendants waited for Mr. Wrushen to leave a residence, struck him in the head with pistols, and ultimately shot him before fleeing on foot, all because Mr. Wrushen was dating Alvino Johnson’s ex-girlfriend, who was an eyewitness to the attack.

Bond Hearings

March 9:
Prosecutors argued that Jordan Luckett should receive a $750,000 bond because the alleged crime occurred in front of an eyewitness and because he was already out on bond in another, unrelated domestic violence case at the time.
Judge Taylor Bachelor set bond at $750,000.

March 10:
Prosecutors presented evidence of Alvino Johnson’s prior juvenile criminal history, including two alleged murder charges within the last five years, as well as the fact that he was already out on bond in another weapons-related case.
Judge Taylor Bachelor set bond at $1,000,000.

Why This Matters

Recent changes in Tennessee law allow courts to consider recent juvenile adjudications when evaluating whether a defendant poses a danger to the community. That law helped ensure the court had the full picture before setting bond.

Cases like this highlight the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office’s commitment to prioritizing the prosecution of violent crime and ensuring that courts have the information needed to make informed decisions about community safety.

Chief Prosecutor Atina Stavropoulos argued both cases.

19-Year-Old’s Case Transferred to Adult Court in Killing of 93-Year-Old Victim

Shelby County, TN — The case against Derrion Taylor, who is charged in the fatal shooting of 93-year-old Geraldine Harris, has now been transferred to adult criminal court. Taylor’s bond was set at $1 million.

Taylor, now 19, faces charges of First-Degree Murder, Two Counts of Attempted First-Degree Murder, and Two Counts of Aggravated Assault. He was 17 years old at the time of the shooting.

On January 17, 2024, the Memphis Police Department (MPD) responded to a shooting call on Kendale Avenue in Memphis. When officers arrived, they discovered three female victims who had been struck by gunfire. One victim, Geraldine Harris, died at the scene. Two other victims were transported to an area hospital with critical injuries.

In July 2025, The U.S. Marshals Service arrested Taylor without incident, taking him into custody in connection with the shooting. With the case now transferred to adult court, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office will prosecute the charges as the case moves forward through the criminal court process.

“The facts of this case are deeply disturbing,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “A 93-year-old woman lost her life in her own home, and two others were critically injured. Our hearts are with Ms. Harris’s family and loved ones as they continue to endure this unimaginable loss. We are committed to pursuing justice and ensuring accountability as this case moves forward in criminal court.”

DA’s Office and City Seek Permanent Closure of Home 1 Extended Stay Following Continued Criminal Activity

The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the City of Memphis, has once again taken legal action against Home 1 Extended Stay, located at 4300 American Way, after criminal activity continued at the property despite prior court intervention.

In October 2024, the hotel was closed under a temporary injunction issued through a joint effort between the City of Memphis and the District Attorney’s Office. The court later allowed the business to reopen on February 10, 2025 under strict conditions, while keeping the case open for one year to monitor activity at the property.

Since reopening, the Memphis Police Department has responded to 430 calls for service at the location and generated 59 incident reports, including 17 overdose responses.

In addition, since October 2025, MPD has executed five narcotics search warrants at the hotel, recovering illegal drugs and evidence of ongoing drug sales occurring on the premises — activity that violates the court’s order.

On March 3, Judge Dandridge signed a new temporary injunction prohibiting the hotel from accepting new guests.The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office and the City of Memphis now intend to petition the court for permanent closure of the business due to continued nuisance activity and criminal conduct at the property.

The action reflects the District Attorney’s Office’s ongoing effort to work with law enforcement and city partners to address properties that repeatedly generate crime and endanger surrounding neighborhoods.

“Hotels cannot become breeding grounds for criminal activity,” said District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “We will work with property owners when possible, but when crime continues — even after a court order to stop — we will take action.”

These actions are intended to protect nearby residents and businesses and to ensure that properties operating in Shelby County do not become ongoing threats to public safety.

District Attorney’s Office Issues Statement Following Death of Defendant in Danny Harris Case

Shelby County, TN. — The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has been notified of the death of Sarah Lucas, who was scheduled for arraignment later this week.

Lucas had been extradited to Tennessee earlier this year in connection with the 2007 murder of Danny Harris. She was charged with facilitation of first-degree murder and perjury related to the case. In January, the DA’s Office said Hayes was wrongfully convicted and it was Riedel who helped her mother with the murder. Tammy Vance, her mother, died in prison while serving a sentence for the murder of Danny Harris.

The District Attorney’s Office released the following statement:

“Our office received word this morning from the Shelby County jail that Sarah Lucas has died. She was set for arraignment this week and prosecutors were prepared to start preparing her case for trial. Despite her passing, and due to the evidence collected by Stephen Harris, victim Danny Harris’ son, we do not anticipate that her passing should affect the exoneration of Andrew Hayes. We are grateful to Stephen Harris for his dedication to exposing the truth behind his father’s death.”

DA Mulroy also offered this statement:

“I’m sorry to hear Sarah Lucas Riedel has died, and I pray for all involved.  Any death is a tragedy, but this one denies the family of Danny Harris a chance for closure and justice. It also denies Andrew Hayes, who we believe was wrongfully convicted of this murder, a chance for further proof of his innocence.  While we won’t be able to prosecute Ms. Riedel, we will let the court know who we believe really killed Mr. Harris.”

The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to ensuring that every case is guided by facts, evidence, and the pursuit of justice. The review process related to Andrew Hayes’ case will continue.

Man Pleads Guilty in Double Homicide Case

Shelby County, TN — Eric Otten, 54, pleaded guilty Wednesday to two counts of second-degree murder in the September 2023 killings of his estranged wife, Jenni Otten, and Mark Cross at the Meridian Park Apartments in Collierville.

Otten was originally charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Under the negotiated agreement, those charges were reduced to second-degree murder. He will serve a total effective sentence of 30 years in the Tennessee Department of Correction.

Cross was initially hospitalized following the shooting and later died from his injuries. During a November 2023 preliminary hearing, Collierville Judge Lee Ann Pafford Dobson found probable cause to proceed with the case. Testimony revealed the three individuals had previously been involved in a relationship.

Otten had been scheduled for a pre-trial hearing but instead entered guilty pleas before Criminal Court Judge Carlyn Addison. The plea agreement was reached after discussion with family members of both victims.

There is no opportunity for appeal under the agreement.

After Expedited Hearing Request, Prolific Crime Driver Sentenced to Eight Years

Shelby County, TN —After the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office requested an expedited probation violation hearing, Keymon Bledsoe—whom law enforcement identified as a prolific crime driver—will serve eight years in the Tennessee Department of Correction following the revocation of his probation.

Bledsoe was granted probation on December 18, 2025, in eight separate indicted cases involving multiple charges, including auto theft. He requested probation from the court and was afforded that opportunity, despite the State’s objection.

On December 31, 2025, Bledsoe was arrested following a high-speed pursuit that began near the airport on Plough Boulevard. The pursuit lasted nearly ten minutes, spanning interstate and residential streets. Authorities report he drove with his headlights off through heavy traffic before ultimately crashing the vehicle, fleeing on foot, and being apprehended. He was charged with Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Theft of a Firearm, Possession of a Prohibited Weapon, Intentionally Evading Arrest in a Motor Vehicle, and Reckless Endangerment, among other offenses.

Officers recovered three firearms from the vehicle, including one equipped with a Glock switch and another described as an assault-style rifle.

Bledsoe posted bond on January 1, 2026. The following day, the District Attorney’s Office expedited a probation violation on his probated cases and sought a bond increase on the new charges. After failing to appear for subsequent court dates, a bench warrant was issued with a $500,000 bond on the new case.

Memphis Police located Bledsoe on January 21 and took him back into custody.

At his first appearance on the probation violation on February 6, prosecutors asked the court to hold a hearing immediately. Judge Carolyn Blackett granted Bledsoe one week to retain counsel and set the hearing for February 11.

At the hearing, Tennessee Highway Patrol and Memphis Police officers were present to provide testimony and evidence regarding the high-speed pursuit. Rather than proceed with the State presenting proof and video evidence, Bledsoe asked the court to violate his probation without contest.

The court revoked his probation, and Bledsoe will now serve eight years in TDOC. He still faces prosecution for the new charges related to the pursuit and firearms recovered.

ADA Shaun Schielke handled the case.

Man Pleads Guilty in Fatal Hit-and-Run That Killed University of Memphis Student

Shelby County, TN. — Today, Julio Hernandez, pleaded guilty in Shelby County Criminal Court to vehicular homicide in connection with the July 25, 2023, hit-and-run death of Ava Christopher, a University of Memphis student.

According to court records and police reports, Christopher was struck and killed at the intersection of Cooper Street and Central Avenue when Hernandez allegedly ran a red light in a stolen Dodge Challenger and collided with her vehicle. Video evidence and witness testimony indicated the driver and a passenger left the scene immediately following the crash. Christopher later died at a hospital from her injuries.

Hernandez was arrested nearly four months after the incident. He was initially indicted in early 2025 on several additional charges that included reckless vehicular homicide, driving without a license, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. He pleaded guilty to all charges.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 25, 2026.

Shelby County DA's Office Releases 2025 Impact Report Highlighting Crime Reduction, Faster Justice, and Stronger Victim Support

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Shelby County, Tenn. — The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office today released its 2025 Impact Report, detailing a year marked by significant reductions in crime, faster case resolution, expanded victim support, and data-driven strategies aimed at improving public safety and trust in the justice system.

The report, titled Justice in Action, outlines how focused prosecution, meaningful supervision, and system-wide efficiency contributed to measurable progress across Shelby County in 2025.

Key outcomes from the 2025 Impact Report include:

• Overall crime decreased by 16% countywide, including a 21% reduction in violent crime and a 23% drop in property crime

• More than 123,000 cases handled across General Sessions, Criminal, Traffic, Environmental, and Juvenile Courts

• Faster justice for victims, with General Sessions cases resolved in an average of 92 days

• Over 13,000 victims served, supported by advocacy, court guidance, compensation assistance, and public-safety resources

• 75% of probation-eligible defendants required to complete customized rehabilitative supervision—more than double prior years

• 30 new cases opened and 59 cases closed by the Justice Review Unit, including the correction of multiple wrongful convictions

• Evidence backlog eliminated in the Video Processing Unit, now operating ahead of schedule

“These numbers represent real people—victims seeking answers, families waiting for closure, and communities that deserve safety and fairness,” said District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “In 2025, we focused on what works: prioritizing violent crime, moving cases faster, and holding offenders accountable while reducing the risk of repeat offenses.”

The report highlights the office’s public safety strategy, including the continued expansion of the V11 initiative, which prioritizes 11 categories of violent and violence-associated offenses from intake through disposition. It also details investments in meaningful supervision, requiring education, treatment, job training, and rehabilitation as part of probation to improve long-term outcomes.

Beyond the courtroom, the ImpactReport documents the office’s work in the community, including expungement clinics, resource fairs, and town halls across Shelby County. In 2025, the office also secured a $300,000 federal Byrne Discretionary Grant to strengthen victim and witness support services, providing tangible assistance such as temporary housing relocation, security upgrades, and emergency repairs.

The full 2025 Impact Report is available on our website.

Shelby County DA’s Office Eliminates Months-Long Video Evidence Backlog

Shelby County, TN—After reorganizing internal operations and increasing staffing in the video processing unit, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office eliminated a months-long backlog in processing case-related video evidence. By the end of 2025, the unit was fully caught up and operating ahead of schedule.

This improvement removed a significant bottleneck that had delayed case preparation and contributed to court postponements, allowing cases to move through the system more efficiently for victims, defendants, and the community.

“Justice delayed is justice denied,” said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy. “When cases drag on, victims are left waiting for closure, defendants—especially those in custody—remain in limbo, and public safety suffers. Research shows the most effective deterrent to crime is not harsher punishment, but punishment that is swift and certain.”

Shelby County processes a larger volume of criminal cases than the next three largest Tennessee counties combined—a logistical challenge that places a strain on courts and contributes to system-wide backlogs.

While many factors affecting case timelines—such as court scheduling, defense continuances, and the time required for autopsies, mental health evaluations, and lab results—are outside the District Attorney’s Office’s control, the Office remains focused on improving the areas it can directly manage.

One of those areas is the processing of thousands of hours of case-related video footage reviewed each year. Under the discovery process, defense counsel is entitled to this material before trial. Staff must redact private information, organize the footage by case, and prepare it for release to prosecutors. Until that process is complete, defense attorneys may request court date postponements.

By restructuring operations, expanding staffing, and strengthening oversight within the video processing unit, the Office eliminated the backlog and restored timely case preparation.

This progress represents a concrete step toward a faster, more effective justice system in Shelby County.

Court Orders $1 Million Bond for Dominica Mosby in Child’s Death Case; State to Seek Life Without Parole

Shelby County, TN— Today, following a preliminary hearing in which the judge found probable cause, the State argued successfully to keep the bond at $1 million for Dominica Mosby, who has been charged with the death of a 3-year-old child. Prosecutors also advised the court that they will be seeking life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Mosby, 29, is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, and aggravated child neglect in the death of Kevin Horton, 3.

On November 15, just after 3 a.m., Memphis Police responded to a call in the 4200 block of Beacon Hills Road after the child’s father found Kevin Horton unresponsive. The child was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mosby, identified as the father’s girlfriend, initially told officers she had put the child to bed after he became sick. During a subsequent interview with homicide investigators, Mosby confessed to inflicting severe abuse on the child. According to investigators, Mosby admitted to placing a lit cigarette in the child’s ear, burning his genitals after he urinated on the floor, and repeatedly beating, stomping, and striking the child on his torso and chest when he did not obey her.

The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide. The autopsy revealed lacerations to the liver, internal bleeding in the stomach, bruising on the torso, and burns to the ear and genitals.

Investigators also learned from the child’s aunt that she had previously noticed injuries on Kevin Horton.

“The facts presented in this case are disturbing and heartbreaking,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “A judge has found probable cause, and the State will continue to pursue accountability and justice. A three-year-old child lost his life under horrific circumstances. Our responsibility is to seek justice for Baby Kevin and to ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable.”

Mosby remains in custody on $1 million bond.

Special Victims Unit (SVU) Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen and ADA Dru Carpenter are handling the case.

DA Mulroy Issues Statement on Suspect in Jewish School Incident

“On Friday, Joel Bowman entered a guilty plea that ensures he will be under intensive supervision and receive mental health treatment for the next eight years. This resolution follows meetings with the victims and their representatives, who understand the reasoning underlying this resolution,  as well as an extensive investigation into Mr. Bowman’s criminal actions on the day of the incident, which fortunately caused no physical injuries.

The investigation, medical documentation, and other evidence demonstrated that his actions occurred during a significant mental health crisis, when underlying conditions were unmedicated. After months in custody, appropriate medication, court-supervised release, and ongoing mental health counseling, Mr. Bowman has complied with all conditions, demonstrated stability, and accepted continued supervision, monitoring, and a structured mental health treatment plan.  

We believe this resolution is just and protects the public. In this instance, continued incarceration would not only be unnecessary, but counterproductive.”

Juvenile Transferred to Adult Court in Killing of Israeli Locksmith in South Memphis

Shelby County, TN— A juvenile defendant was transferred into the adult court system today in the case involving the killing of Aviv Broek.

Following a full transfer hearing, the Judge found probable cause on all charges, including:

• Especially Aggravated Robbery

• First Degree Murder

• Murder in the Perpetration of a Felony, to wit: Aggravated Robbery

Prosecutors argued that the defendant, now 18-year-old Arthur Jones Jr. was part of an orchestrated robbery, carried out to obtain car programmers and key fobs used to further ongoing criminal activity involving stolen vehicles.

The family of the victim participated in Tuesday’s hearing via Zoom from Israel and expressed that they were extremely pleased with the court’s decision.

The State requested a $1,000,000 bond; the Judge ordered bond set at $400,000.

The case will now proceed in the adult criminal justice system.

Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Declines Charges in Courthouse Incident Involving General Sessions Clerk

Shelby County, TN — After a thorough review of the facts, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office will not pursue criminal charges against General Sessions Court Clerk Tami Sawyer related to the courthouse incident at 140 Adams in October.

“At the request of my Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation opened an investigation into Clerk Sawyer’s role in this matter, viewed video, and interviewed relevant witnesses,” said DA Mulroy. “The results of these were shared with and reviewed by my office. There is simply no evidence that Clerk Sawyer solicited, aided or directed her security guard to bypass Courthouse security. Her interaction with sheriff deputies did not appear to violate any state law. As a result, she will face no criminal charges in this matter.”

The decision follows a comprehensive investigative process, including review of video footage and firsthand witness statements. While initial media attention focused on a portion of the events, the full record does not support criminal wrongdoing by Clerk Sawyer.

Juvenile Suspect Transferred to Adult Court; $1 Million Bond Set in Killing of 19-Year-Old Aaliyah Kyles

Shelby County, TN — A judge has transferred 18-year-old Armani Watson to adult court and set his bond at $1 million in the July 2024 killing of 19-year-old Aaliyah Kyles. Watson was 17 at the time of the offense.

Earlier this week, probable cause was established on all charges, including allegations that Watson broke into Kyles’ home, sexually assaulted her, and fatally shot her. Prosecutors say Watson admitted to the crimes during the investigation. Memphis Police officers found Kyles deceased in her bathtub.

Because of the brutality of the attack, the Shelby County DA’s Office immediately sought to have Watson prosecuted as an adult and requested the transfer following the initial arrest.

Further court proceedings will be scheduled in the coming weeks.

DA's Full Statement Regarding Jail Report Card

“I tell my prosecutors to concentrate on keeping in jail the repeat offenders, so we shouldn’t be surprised to see more repeat offenders than first-time offenders in jail. This is especially true now that the federal task force has helpfully increased arrests of repeat offenders by serving outstanding warrants.

It’s disappointing that the report doesn’t break down the jail population by offense type, since many of those in jail are there for less serious offenses. For them, the best way to reduce recidivism is to require rehabilitation so they don’t go back to their old life upon release from prison—something else our office has doubled down on in recent years.

All in all, this report supports our smart-on-crime efforts—it’s precisely the repeat offenders that we need to be keeping in jail.”

Juvenile Transferred to Adult Court in April Berclair-Area Homicide

Shelby County, TN — A juvenile, Jesse Martinez Jr., has been transferred to adult court and is now charged with First Degree Murder in Perpetration of a Felony for the killing of 15-year-old Michael Aguilar. Family members identified the victim as Aguilar.

The charge stems from an April shooting near the Berclair neighborhood. Memphis Police initially responded to a reported shooting just before 6 p.m. in the 3900 block of Macon. It was later confirmed that the shooting occurred in the 3900 block of Grahamdale. After the shooting, the victim left the scene and was driven to a nearby fire station for help.

Aguilar was transported to Regional One Health in critical condition and later died from his injuries. Police confirmed he was 15 years old.

With the court’s transfer order, Martinez Jr. will now be prosecuted as an adult.

This case remains ongoing.

15th Annual “Season of Remembrance” Ceremony to Honor Homicide Victims in Shelby County

Shelby County, TN — On Monday, December 1, 2025, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Unit will host its annual Season of Remembrance — a heartfelt tribute to honor the lives of homicide victims in our community. The event will be held at the Michael D. Rose Theater on the campus of the University of Memphis (470 University St., Memphis, TN 38152). A small reception will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the ceremony at 6 p.m..

This annual event, first launched in 2011, provides a meaningful space for families, friends and the broader Memphis-Shelby County community to come together, remember loved ones lost to violence and reaffirm our collective commitment to justice, healing and prevention.

Event Highlights:

• Families are encouraged to bring a commemorative ornament to place on a wreath in memory of their loved one.

• A special tree will display ornaments representing victims of homicide in Shelby County during the current year.

• The reception offers an opportunity for quiet reflection and connection before the formal ceremony begins.

The Season of Remembrance is more than a tribute — it’s a recognition of the profound impact of homicide on families, friends and community. In past years the ceremony has drawn hundreds of attendees, underscoring the importance of collective acknowledgement and support. The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office remains steadfast in its mission to enhance public safety, foster restoration and prevention and ensure equal justice for all.

“This ceremony is a testament to the resilience of Shelby County,” said DA Steve Mulroy. “When we gather to remember those lost to homicide, we reaffirm our promise to the families and to this community: we will work tirelessly for truth, justice, and healing. No family walks this journey alone.”

Logistics and Parking:

• Date: Monday, December 1, 2025

• Reception: 5:30 p.m.

• Ceremony start: 6:00 p.m.

• Location: Michael D. Rose Theater, University of Memphis (470 University St., Memphis, TN 38152)

• Free parking is available in the Zach-Curlin Garage adjacent to the theater.

Media Instructions:
Members of the press are invited to cover the event and speak with family members, staff from the Victim/Witness Unit, and leadership from the District Attorney’s Office. Please RSVP to the Public Affairs Office by November 28 to confirm attendance.

Brandon Isabelle Sentenced to 147 Years in Prison for the Murders of Danielle Hoyle and Infant Kennedy Hoyle

Shelby County, TN – A Shelby County Criminal Court judge sentenced Brandon Isabelle to a total of 147 years in prison today for the 2022 murders of Danielle Hoyle and her infant daughter, Kennedy Hoyle—a case that shook the community and drew national attention.

Judge Jennifer Johnson ordered Isabelle’s homicide sentences for both victims—51 years for the murder of Danielle Hoyle and 51 years for the murder of Kennedy Hoyle—to run consecutively, totaling 102 years.

The court then imposed an additional 45 years:

• 22.5 years for Aggravated Child Neglect

• 22.5 years for Especially Aggravated Kidnapping

Those sentences were also ordered to run consecutively, bringing Isabelle’s total sentence to 147 years.

Prosecutors noted the symbolic significance of the additional 22.5-year sentences: one year for every hour baby Kennedy was alive.

Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen, who handled the case, emphasized that today’s outcome reflects both the gravity of the crimes and the community’s demand for justice.

“We and the family are very pleased with today’s sentence, which reflects the heinous nature of the crimes perpetrated against two cherished members of our community,” Christensen said. “Danielle and Kennedy deserved protection, love, and life. Today’s sentence honors their memory and reinforces our commitment to pursuing justice for the most vulnerable.”

Isabelle was tried last month, and a Shelby County jury found him guilty on all counts.

Man Found Guilty in Murder of Children’s Mother

Shelby County, TN — A Shelby County jury has found Leondre Clark guilty of First Degree Murder and Convicted Felon in Possession of a Handgun for the 2023 shooting death of Toniquia Clark, the mother of his children.

The shooting happened in broad daylight on Carnes Avenue. Police responded to the 3000 block, where they found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds to her upper body. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators identified Clark as the suspect after reviewing surveillance video and locating a red Ford Explorer matching witness accounts. The vehicle was registered to Clark, who was already a convicted felon.

Clark will be sentenced at a later date.

Chief Prosecutors Lessie Rainey and Monica Timmerman handled the case.

Man Found Guilty in Landlord's Death

Shelby County, TN—A Shelby County jury has found Robert Collins guilty of shooting and killing his landlord following a dispute over rent and property maintenance. The verdict was returned on Saturday, concluding an almost weeklong trial.

The incident occurred on November 16, 2021, at a small building in the 600 block of East Shelby Drive, where Collins both worked on vehicles and occasionally stayed. Collins had been several months behind on rent to Ernest Hatton, 50, and had failed to maintain the property as agreed.

Investigators said that when Hatton arrived at the location that afternoon, Collins fired multiple gunshots at him, striking Hatton more than a dozen times. Hatton was transported to a hospital, where he later died.

Police reported that Collins approached officers at the scene and admitted to shooting Hatton. A witness told investigators that prior to the incident, Collins had said that if Hatton came to see him, he “had something for him.”

Collins represented himself during the trial. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Carrie Bush and Susan Taylor.