Jackson Teens Sentenced for Pair of Ridgeland Car Jackings in Multi-City Crime Spree

Madison County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced today that Karmello Gaines, Ti’Jerrical Thornton and Deterrious Williams have each been sentenced for their roles in a carjacking crime spree that spanned multiple towns last year. 

On August 29, 2021, Ridgeland Police Department responded to a carjacking at a gas station on Lake Harbor Drive. The victim, an employee at the gas station, stated two masked men with guns forced her away from her car and stole it. The two men were followed out of the gas station by another vehicle driven by a female. Using the location data from the victim’s phone, officers were able to track the stolen car to Clinton. 

While in Clinton, the trio carjacked another car and went back to Ridgeland. They carjacked a third victim at the Residence Inn and led officers on a highspeed chase into Jackson where officers lost sight of them. That same night, the group carjacked and fired shots at a fourth victim in Terry as well as carjacking a fifth car in Byram. 

Through a multi-jurisdictional operation, officers identified the main gunman as Karmello Gaines, who was 16 at the time. He was accompanied each time by Deterrious Williams, then 15, and Ti’Jerrical Thornton, 17. Officers were able to confirm the shell casings from where the gunman fired shots at the Terry carjacking victim were from the same gun found on Gaines at the time of his arrest. All evidence indicated that Williams was responsible for driving the stolen cars from each crime scene, and Thornton drove the two men to the carjackings so that they could leave in a newly stolen car. 

All three individuals pled guilty to two counts of armed carjacking for the acts occurring in Madison County. Both Williams and Thornton pled early in the prosecution and agreed to testify against Gaines if necessary. Williams was sentenced to 17 years in custody. Thornton was sentenced to ten years to serve. Gaines, who originally elected to go to trial, but later pled guilty in front of Judge Dewey Arthur was sentenced to thirty years to serve for his role as the ringleader of the criminal enterprise. 

District Attorney Bramlett stated “These three teenagers came into Madison County, not once but twice, with the sole intent of carjacking innocent people at gun point. They then went and terrorized the citizens of Clinton, Terry, and Byram. We are so grateful that the various police departments were able to work together quickly and effectively to quickly capture them and prevent anyone from getting seriously hurt. Armed carjackings, armed robberies, or any other crimes perpetrated with the use of a gun will not be tolerated in Madison and Rankin Counties. Please be aware of this … our office will continue to send offenders to prison for lengthy sentences, no matter their age, for violent offenses such as these.” 

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DEFENDANT:

KARMELLO GAINES                  

DOB: 07/15/2005

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DEFENDANT:

Deterrious M. Williams                      

DOB: 02/23/2006

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DEFENDANT:

TI’JERRICAL THORNTON                      

DOB: 02/28/2004

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Final Man Sentenced in Ridgeland Home Invasion

Madison County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney John K. Bramlett, Jr., announced today that Jordan Collins., 24, of Jackson, was sentenced by Judge Bradley Mills after being found guilty by a jury of multiple offenses including kidnapping, aggravated assault, armed carjacking and conspiracy. The judge sentenced him to serve a total of forty years for the various offenses. 

This concluded the more than two year investigation and prosecution of six individuals involved in an elaborate scheme to rob an elderly couple living in the Country Club of Jackson and their adult son who resided in Ridgeland. 

In mid-2020, Samuel Young was incarcerated in the Marshall County Correctional Facility with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Young had been previously convicted of sexual battery as a violent habitual offender and sentenced to life out of the Madison County Circuit Court. While incarcerated, he started an online affair with Ridgeland resident Debra Cameron. At the time Cameron was the long-time live-in girlfriend of the adult son. 

Young and Cameron devised a plan where they would contract out a home invasion on the son and his elderly parents to steal expensive jewelry, credit cards, and bank account information from both houses. Young contacted David Mitchell, who was also being housed in the Marshall County Correctional Facility to set up the individuals who would do the robberies. 

On June 4, 2022, Desmond Jones dropped Jordan Collins and Kneefe Miller off at the son’s Ridgeland home. Debra Cameron was expecting them and left the back door unlocked so that they could get into the house. After entering the home, Collins and Miller pulled guns on the victim and forced him to give them cash and the keys to his vehicle. They then put him in his car at gunpoint and began to drive off. The victim was able to escape from the moving vehicle and called police. 

While police were on scene in Ridgeland at the victim’s residence, they received word that his elderly parents had also been the victims of an armed home invasion at their Jackson home. The couple had been awaked by two gunmen entering their home and zip tying them at gunpoint. The two masked gunmen then stole several pieces of jewelry and their vehicle. 

Through an extensive joint investigation with the Ridgeland Police Department and the Jackson Police Department, officers were able to identify multiple individuals involved in the planned home invasions. All but Collins pled guilty to various crimes associated with the incidents. Collins elected to go to trial. After a three-day trial, which included testimony of several co-defendants and the victim as well as multiple individuals’ cell phone location data, the jury found Collins guilty of all charges. 

He was sentenced in Madison Circuit Court by Judge Mills to serve forty years for his offenses. 

District Attorney Bubba Bramlett stated, “This is one of those cases that seems like it was something out of a movie. It is one of the most complicated and sophisticated schemes I have seen with the origin beginning from behind the bars of a MDOC prison facility. We are truly sorry the victims had to endure the terror these individuals put them through and are glad we were able to successfully prosecute each and every one of them. The Ridgeland and Jackson Police Departments put countless hours into the investigation and apprehension of each of the men and women involved in this matter and assured there was plenty of evidence so that each one would go to prison for their involvement. We hope that by convicting the final defendant in the Madison case, the victims can continue to heal and close this horrible chapter in their lives.” 

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DEFENDANT:

JORDAN COLLINS                      

DOB: 03/24/1998

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DEFENDANT:

KNEEFE MILLER                      

DOB: 01/11/1999

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DEFENDANT:

SAM YOUNG                      

DOB: 12/14/1987

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DEFENDANT:

DEBRA CAMERON                  

DOB: 12/12/1961

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DEFENDANT:

DAVID BRADFORD MITCHELL                      

DOB: 05/12/1994

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DEFENDANT:

DESMOND JONES                    

DOB: 04/01/1991

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West Speaks to Rankin County Leaders, Law Enforcement, and Offenders

Rankin County, MS – Rankin and Madison District Attorney John K. Bramlett’s office sponsored multiple events on September 20, 2022. The DA’s office brought internationally known speaker and author Damon West to share his story with diverse audiences across Rankin County. 

The morning began with West speaking to a room full of Rankin County community leaders. Later he shared his message with law enforcement officers from around the state who were attending the Blue to Gold law enforcement training conference sponsored by the DA’s Office, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, US Attorney’s Office, and other local businesses and leaders. 

During the afternoon, West spoke to participants in the District Attorney’s Pretrial Intervention Program before speaking to Twentieth Circuit Drug Court participants. He ended the day talking with trusties in the Rankin County Adult Detention Center. 

The inspirational story of his roller-coaster life: having it all with great loving parents, being a D1 college starting quarterback, working for a Presidential Candidate and stockbroker, to living on the streets as a crystal meth addict and a burglar can relate across all sides of the law. 

West discussed his life as a ringleader of burglary crimes in Dallas, Texas, that left his victims out of tens of thousands of dollars and him with a life sentence of 65 years in a Texas maximum-security prison. When speaking with law enforcement, he focused on how if they weren’t careful, their hearts would quickly harden because of their demanding jobs. When speaking with those currently incarcerated in the Rankin County Adult Detention Center, he focused on how prison was not a punishment but rather an opportunity to better themselves before being released. Finally, he related to the inmates and talked about how he is on parole until 2073, so he too must fight his addiction daily, and he cannot make even one mistake that would lead him back to prison to finish serving his life sentence. 

Regardless of the audience, West left everyone with the same message that they should all live servant leadership lives. In addition, he encouraged everyone to “Be A Coffee Bean,” which is the lesson he learned in prison and carries out into the world today to make a difference in the lives of others. 

“We were all blessed by Damon West’s inspiring story,” stated Bramlett. “He is a true coffee bean changing the environment around him and making this world a better place, one day at a time. We are grateful he joined us in sharing his inspirational message to each of these groups as we all work to better serve Rankin County and its citizens.” 

To learn more about West’s fascinating story or to purchase The Coffee Bean, The Change Agent or any of his other books, visit www.damonwest.org. 

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Rankin County Jury Finds Man Guilty of Sexual Battery

Rankin County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney John K. Bramlett, Jr., announced that Jayson Tamayo Galang, Jr., 32, of Brandon, was found guilty of one count of sexual battery by a Rankin County jury. As a result, Galang will be sentenced by Judge Dewey Arthur on November 7, 2022. He faces up to thirty years in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender.

On July 28, 2021, the Flowood Police Department received a call from Merit Health River Oaks regarding a sexual assault victim. The victim reported she knew Galang and that he had forced himself into her residence and sexually assaulted her.  

The Flowood Police interviewed the victim and Galang and took photos from the crime scene. The victim had a sexual assault examination performed at the hospital and a kit was administered and sent to the Mississippi Crime Lab for processing.

The Rankin County jury heard from the victim, the victim’s friend who spoke to her on the evening of the assault, a Flowood detective, the nurse practitioner who performed the sexual assault examination, and the forensic scientist with the Mississippi Crime Lab. In addition, the jury was shown a video of the defendant’s interview with the police.

After hearing the two-day testimony, the jury found Galang guilty of one count of sexual battery. The potential penalty is zero to thirty years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. In addition, Galang will have to register as a sex offender and have no contact with the victim. Any sentence imposed on Galang will be served day-for-day without the possibility of parole or early release.

“This case is an example of everyone doing their part to help provide services and justice to the victim,” stated District Attorney Bramlett. “Thank you to the nurse, the hospital, the Flowood Police Department, the forensic scientist at the Mississippi Crime Lab, and the Rankin County citizens who served on the jury. Our office will continue to zealously prosecute these violent crimes.”

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JAYSON TAMAYO GALANG, JR.                       

DOB: 02/16/1990

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Armed Teen Carjackers Sentenced

Madison County, MS – Madison and Rankin County District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced today that a group of Jackson area teens has been prosecuted and sentenced for their part in a Ridgeland armed carjacking. Demyrin Williams, 18, Montavious Wilson, 19, and Jakobe Young, 15, pled guilty and were sentenced in Madison County Circuit Court.

On June 14, 2021, Ridgeland Police Department responded to the Mark Apartments at approximately 6 a.m. in regards to a carjacking. The victim reported that he was sitting in his car waiting on an Uber to pick him up and take him to the airport.  While waiting, he was approached by two young, armed males who each pointed a gun at his head, threatened to kill him, and demanded his 2017 Honda Civic. The victim also stated that the suspects were dropped off by an individual in a white Acura SUV which followed his stolen Honda from the scene.  The Ridgeland Police Department found the white Acura SUV shortly after the carjacking, but the driver refused to pull the car over resulting in a high-speed chase.

The Acura ultimately wrecked out in a Jackson neighborhood. Montavious Wilson, who was 18 at the time, was taken into custody and identified as the driver.  Officers were able to determine that the Acura had been previously stolen out of Jackson.

Through forensic evidence and eye-witness testimony, law enforcement was able to identify the two gunmen as Demyrin Williams, 18, and Jakobe Young, 14.  Young committed this crime two-days prior to his 15th birthday.

Demyrin Williams pled guilty to Armed Carjacking and Conspiracy and was sentenced to 25 years MDOC custody with 15 years to serve by Circuit Judge Dewey Arthur. Jakobe Young pled guilty to Armed Carjacking and was sentenced to 25 years MDOC custody with 12 years to serve by Circuit Judge Bradley Mills. Montavious Wilson also pled guilty to Armed Carjacking and Felony Evasion and was sentenced to 20 years MDOC custody with 12 years to serve by Judge Mills.

District Attorney Bubba Bramlett stated: “Teens committing violent felonies using firearms is a serious problem across the state. Madison and Rankin County law enforcement and my office are taking aggressive action against such activity. One of the teenagers led law enforcement on a dangerous high-speed chase into Jackson before wrecking out.  The other two teenagers each held a gun to a citizen’s head and threatened to kill him.

Then the youngest of the bunch, a 14 year old, drove off in the carjacked automobile.  It’s a miracle no one died.”

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MONTAVIOUS S. WILSON                          

DOB: 02/17/2003

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DEMYRIN T. WILLIAMS                    

DOB: 07/10/2003

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JAKOBE M. YOUNG

DOB: 06/16/2006

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District Attorney Urges Parents And Caregivers: Look Before You Lock

Rankin County, MS – Madison and Rankin County District Attorney Bubba Bramlett wants to remind parents and caregivers about the dangers of pediatric vehicular heatstroke. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pediatric vehicular heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash, vehicle-related deaths for children in the United States. Since 1998, 913 children aged 14 or younger have died from pediatric vehicular heatstroke.

A child's body temperature can rise five times faster than an adult’s, and vehicular heatstroke can occur when outside temperatures are as low as 57 degrees. Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, whether running or not, even for a few minutes. Before you walk away from your car, always Look Before You Lock.

“It could happen to anyone, so please ensure it doesn’t happen to your family,” stated Bramlett. “Mississippi summer months mean dangerous temperatures. In just 10 minutes, the temperature inside a car can rise by 20 degrees. On a typical 90°day, the temperatures inside a car can exceed 110°, which is deadly for a child.” On average last year, two children died each month from pediatric vehicular heatstroke.

Half of child heatstroke fatalities occurred when the adult driver forgot the child was in the back seat. Usually, the child was being taken to childcare or preschool, and the adult forgot they were in the car. In most cases, the child was under the age of one and asleep or just quiet in the back seat. A change in route is a common factor in many of these preventable tragedies. For this reason, make it a habit to Look Before You Lock every time you leave your vehicle. It only takes a second to check the back seat—a simple step that could save a life. 

Toddlers and young mobile children are also at risk of heatstroke if they gain access to a parked vehicle. Some children get into an unlocked vehicle without the knowledge of an adult and may be unable to get out of the car, especially if the vehicle's child locks are activated. Please talk to your children about not playing in or around a car. Then make sure you always lock your vehicle and keep the keys out of reach of children. 

The District Attorney's office urges all parents and caregivers to do these three things to help prevent child heatstroke: 

• Make it a habit of looking in the back seat EVERY time you exit the car.

• NEVER leave a child in a vehicle unattended, even for a short time or with the windows cracked.

• ALWAYS lock the car and put the keys out of reach.  

If you are a bystander and see a child in a hot vehicle: 

• Make sure the child is okay and responsive. If not, call 911 immediately.

• If the child appears okay, attempt to locate the parents, or have the facility's security or management page the car owner over the PA system. If someone is with you, one person should actively search for the parent while the other waits at the car.

• If the child is not responsive or appears distressed, attempt to get into the car to assist—even if that means breaking a window. 

Know the warning signs of heatstroke, including red, hot, and moist or dry skin; no sweating; a strong rapid, or slow and weak pulse; nausea; confusion; or acting strangely. If a child exhibits any of these signs after being in a hot vehicle, quickly spray the child with cool water— NEVER put a child in an ice bath. It is always advisable to call 911 or your local emergency number to have the child assessed by professionals.

Bramlett said, "There is a simple way to end these avoidable deaths: please Look Before You Lock." 

For more information on vehicular heatstroke, visit www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/heatstroke. 

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Jamie Ladell Sullivan, "Mr. Fix It," Pleads Guilty to False Pretense

Rankin County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties' District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced that on Thursday, June 2, 2022, Jamie Ladell Sullivan, aka "Mr. Fix It," pled guilty to one (1) count of False Pretense. Judge Arthur sentenced Sullivan to ten (10) years with five (5) years suspended, leaving five (5) years to serve in custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Upon release from custody, Sullivan will be placed on five (5) years of supervised probation.

On or around August 25, 2020, the Rankin County Sheriff's Office received complaints from citizens about Sullivan scamming them into fixing their garage doors. Sullivan allegedly went to their houses, quoted them a price, and got paid but did not buy any materials or do any of the work promised. The victims attempted to contact Sullivan, but he would either not respond or give excuses. Sullivan was apprehended by the RCSO and admitted to lying to customers about ordering the parts. He further admitted that he was supposed to use the money to buy parts but instead used it to pay off old debts. Sullivan scammed seven (7) victims in Rankin County, including an 86-year-old vulnerable adult.

The Rankin County District Attorney's Office recovered the full restitution, $11,973.50, from Sullivan for the victims.

"Sheriff Bryan Bailey and the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office did a great job investigating this case and helped our office recover the financial losses the victims suffered, " said Bramlett. "In addition, they helped secure a conviction that will hold this Defendant accountable for his fraudulent actions."

Defendant:
Name: Jamie Ladell Sullivan
Date of Birth: 12/30/1975

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Alexander Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking with Intent to Distribute

Madison, MS – Madison and Rankin District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced that on Monday, May 16, 2022, Daryl Alexander of Canton, pled guilty to trafficking in methamphetamine, trafficking in fentanyl, and possession of tetrahydrocannabinol with intent to distribute.

On April 1, 2020, a deputy with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office made a traffic stop on I55 North in Madison County. The driver, identified as Daryl Alexander, was on his way to Canton, MS. When the driver and passenger in the vehicle gave conflicting stories, the deputy used his canine to search the vehicle, resulting in an alert of narcotics. Deputies located over two thousand (2,000) methamphetamine pills, one (1) kilogram of methamphetamine, one (1) 1⁄2 lbs. of marijuana, and twenty-eight (28) grams of cocaine.

As a result of a follow up investigation to the traffic stop, on June 19, 2022, agents with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on James St. in Canton, MS. Agents discovered over sixty (60) bags of cocaine packaged for sale, multiple edibles, marijuana, three hundred eighty-two (382) Fentanyl pills, digital scales, a money counter, and several firearms. Daryl Alexander was located outside of the residence when the search warrant was executed.

Alexander was indicted for multiple drug charges including trafficking of methamphetamine, trafficking of fentanyl, possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of tetrahydrocannabinol, and conspiracy charges.

When Alexander failed to appear in court on March 9, 2021, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. He fled to Texas but was picked up on March 4, 2022, and transported back to MS. He appeared in court on May 16, 2022, and plead guilty to trafficking in methamphetamine, trafficking in fentanyl, and possession of tetrahydrocannabinol with intent.

Alexander was sentenced by Judge Steve Ratcliff to serve 25 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections without the possibility of early release or parole.

Alexander previously served time in 2003 for a Manslaughter conviction and in 2013 for a Possession of Marijuana conviction.

Alexander’s co-defendant Sharmica L. Rushing has an active warrant and is currently on the run. Any information leading to her whereabouts should be turned over to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

Bramlett stated: “These people trafficking fentanyl through Rankin and Madison are going to figure out, sooner or later, they are on the highway to prison, and they’re going to be there for a while.”

Defendant:
Name: Daryl Alexander
Date of Birth: 09/27/1980

Defendant:
Name: Sharmica L. Rushing
Date of Birth: 1979
Status: Active Warrant

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Daryl Alexander

Sharmica L. Rushing

Richland Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Battery of a Child

Rankin, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties' District Attorney John K. Bramlett, Jr., announced that William Findley Holman, Jr. of Richland, MS, was sentenced to 25 years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections for Sexual Battery of a child.

On October 25, 2021, the Richland Police Department received a referral from the Mississippi Child Protection Services (CPS) regarding Holman abusing a minor child. After the child had disclosed to her mother that Holman had touched her inappropriately, her mother took her to the doctor. The report to CPS came from the medical provider and stated that the abuse took place at Holman's home in Richland.

Children's Advocacy Center then interviewed the child, during which the minor child disclosed that Holman performed sexual acts on her on multiple occasions.

The Richland Police Department interviewed Holman, and he admitted to some of the allegations. Rather than proceed to trial on all his charges, Holman pled guilty on May 16, 2022. Judge Brad Mills sentenced him to 25 years for sexual battery involving a minor under the age of 14. Holman will be required to serve 20 years day for day in prison. He will then be placed on supervised probation for five years. In addition, he must register as a sex offender and will have no contact with his victim.

"I would like to thank the physician who started the reporting process, the Mississippi Child Protection Services, the Mississippi Children's Advocacy Center, and the Richland Police Department for their efforts in putting Holman behind bars for the terrible things he did to this innocent child," stated District Attorney Bramlett. "Our office will continue to prosecute crimes against children zealously."

Defendant:
Name: William Findley Holman, Jr.
Date of Birth: 10/30/1975

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19-Year-Old Sentenced to 25 Years for Murder of Richland Teenager

Rankin County, MS – Monday, May 16, 2022, Rankin County Circuit Court Judge Brad Mills sentenced Ozell Lewis, Jr. of Jackson, MS, to twenty-five years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections for second-degree murder of his girlfriend, Jashonna Adams.

On May 27, 2021, while arguing, Lewis pulled out a stolen gun and shot his girlfriend of two years, 17-year-old Adams, causing her death. Lewis will serve his sentence day for day without the possibility of parole or early release.

“Special appreciation goes to the Richland Police Department for investigating and solving this sad and senseless killing,” stated District Attorney Bubba Bramlett. “Lewis will account for his cowardly actions behind bars for the next twenty-five years.”

Defendant
Name: Ozell Lewis, Jr.
Date of Birth: January 27, 2003

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Rankin Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Battery of a Child

Madison County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett, announced today that Dearron Rashad McMiller was sentenced to serve 20 years for Sexual Battery by Circuit Court Judge Brad Mills.

McMiller, 30, will have to serve every day of his sentence and have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

On February 11, 2022, the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint from the victim’s mother that McMiller had been sexually abusing her child. It was reported that the abuse took place at his home in Florence. The child disclosed McMiller performed multiple sexual acts on her over a period of two years. McMiller pled guilty on November 14, 2022.

District Attorney Bramlett stated, “Our office will continue to zealously prosecute anyone who commits these horrible crimes against children in our district. Thank you to the Parker Children’s Advocacy Center and the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department. Dearron Rashad McMiller will serve the next 20 years in prison for the terrible things he did to an innocent child. More importantly, thanks to this brave victim, McMiller will not be able to assault other young children.” 

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DEFENDANT:

DEARRON RASHAD MCMILLER

DOB: 04/21/1992

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District Attorney Warns of Jury Duty Scam

Rankin County, MS – Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett is warning local citizens of a recent telephone scam. Fraudulent callers inform the victims that they are with their local police, sheriff’s department, district attorney’s office, or the county courts. The caller tells them that they have missed a jury duty summons and therefore could be found in contempt of court. The caller may even claim that a warrant has been used for their arrest. 

The caller then instructs the victim to send money to avoid arrest. The victim is asked to provide their bank account information or send money via cash app, PayPal, Venmo, or a wire transfer. In other cases, the scammer may trick the victim into providing more sensitive personal information like their date of birth, Social Security number, or credit or debit card numbers. 

“Please be aware that even though these calls appear to be from a local police or sheriff departments phone number, a law officer or judge will never demand payment from a public member, nor would an officer come to collect money from you,” stated Bramlett. “These scammers are using real names, and it appears they have all your correct information, but please don’t fall victim.”

Courts almost exclusively contact individuals about jury duty or missed jury duty by postal mail. NOT by phone or email. In addition, actual court-related phone calls are only made during regular business hours. So please do not fall victim to this phone scam or any other scam in which someone you do not know asks for personal information or banking information. 

If you feel you have fallen victim to this missed jury duty scam or any other telephone scam, please report the incident to 601.825.1472.

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Pearl Man Sentenced to Twenty Years for Aggravated Domestic Violence

Rankin County, MS - Madison and Rankin Counties' District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced that on Monday, May 9, 2022, Rankin County Circuit Court Judge Brad Mills sentenced Edward (Robby) Robert Harvey of Pearl to twenty years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections for the felony offense of Aggravated Domestic Violence.

Edward (Robby) Robert Harvey was found guilty by a Rankin County Jury for the felony offense of Aggravated Domestic Violence on March 22, 2022.

On April 15, 2021, Pearl Police responded to a domestic violence call at the home of Robby Harvey.  Pearl Police received information that the victim ran from the home of Robert Harvey and fled to a neighbor’s house. Upon arrival, Pearl Police immediately located the victim and ensured that she was safe.  She had several injuries including a gun barrel imprint on her forehead, severe swelling to her face, and choke marks on her neck. 

District Attorney Bubba Bramlett stated “Harvey held a gun to the victim’s head, threatened to kill her, hit her multiple times in the face with the gun, and strangled her to the point of nearly passing out. Fortunately, the victim was able to escape to her neighbor’s house, or the outcome could have been much worse. Harvey refused to cooperate with officers and after a 30-minute standoff, the Pearl Police were able to apprehend and arrest him.”   

District Attorney Bubba Bramlett added “Our prayers go out to the victim as she recovers from Harvey’s abuse. She was extremely brave and courageous to stand up against her abuser. I want to thank the Pearl Police Department for the outstanding job they did in this case. Their hard work helped secure a conviction that will prevent Harvey from harming the victim and others in the future."

Defendant:

Name: Edward (Robby) Robert Harvey

Date of Birth: 09/22/80

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Pearl Man Convicted of Aggravated Domestic Violence

Rankin County, MS – The Rankin County District Attorney’s Office announced that Edward (Robby) Robert Harvey was found guilty on March 22, 2022, by a Rankin County Jury on one count of aggravated domestic violence.

Pearl Police responded to a possible strangulation domestic violence call on April 15, 2021, at the home of Robby; on arrival, Harvey refused to come to the door and refused to cooperate with officials. Finally, after a 30-minute standoff, Harvey surrendered to negotiators and was arrested and charged. Harvey will be sentenced by Judge Brad Mills on May 9, 2022, and will face up to 20 years.

“We want to thank the Pearl police officers and Rankin County jurors who spent countless hours on this case. Their efforts helped us get another abuser off the streets and behind bars where he will pay for the crime he committed,” stated District Attorney Bubba Bramlett.

Defendant:
Name: Edward (Robby) Robert Harvey
Date of Birth: 09/22/80

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Madison County Judges Sentence Habitual Drug Offenders

Madison, MS – Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced that on Monday, March 28, 2022, Madison County Circuit Court Judge Dewey Arthur sentenced Torrey Powell of Canton to a total of forty years for two counts of Possession of Methamphetamine.

Powell had at least six prior felony convictions in Oklahoma, Georgia, and Mississippi. Because he had been previously convicted of drug offenses, he was considered a subsequent drug offender, which doubled his maximum sentence on the current drug offenses. He was also a non-violent habitual offender, which requires that he serve the maximum sentence allowed by law without parole or early release.

On April 29, 2020, an officer with the Madison Police Department made a routine traffic stop. Powell was the driver of the car, but a female and infant child were in the backseat. The officer found Powell did not have a valid driver’s license or insurance and asked Powell to step out of the car. For safety reasons, Powell was patted down, where a pill bottle was found in Powell’s front pocket. Powell admitted the bottle contained ecstasy pills, methamphetamine, and heroin. The Mississippi Crime Lab tested two of the substances and found both contained methamphetamine – one in a pill form and one in powder form.

On Monday, Judge Arthur also sentenced Carlos Dominque Allen of Jackson to 100 years for the Sale of Fentanyl, Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Hydrocodone, and Possession of Amphetamine. In addition, Judge Brad Mills sentenced Lucas Howard to serve sixty years after a jury convicted him of Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Sale and Conspiracy to Sale Cocaine. Like Powell, both Allen and Howard were subsequent drug offenders and habitual offenders.

“All three of these cases are prime examples of how habitual offenders revolve in and out of our justice system,” stated Bramlett. “A statement was made Monday with these three important sentences. We are thankful for the tireless efforts of our law enforcement, jurors, and judicial system, who are all doing their diligent part to get these drugs and felons off our streets.”

Defendant:
Name: Torrey Powell
Date of Birth: 12/22/1979

Defendant:
Name: Carlos Dominique Allen
Date of Birth: 06/27/1988

Defendant:
Name: Lucas Montel Howard AKA “Bam”
Date of Birth: 07/15/1979

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Canton Man Sentenced for DUI Homicide

Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced today that Jerodrick George of Canton pled guilty to one count of Driving Under the Influence Resulting in Death. Judge Steve Ratcliff sentenced him to serve a term of twenty years in prison.

On November 2, 2018, Jerodrick George was driving westbound on Highway 16 when his pickup truck struck and killed Cheryl L. Clark. Clark was walking in the same direction as George was driving. The force of the impact caused her to be thrown off the roadway and into a nearby ditch. She was killed instantly from the impact. George attempted to leave the scene, but his car was not drivable due to the force of the collision. His blood alcohol content was .107 when he was later taken to the hospital for minor injuries he sustained from the crash.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol Crash Team worked the accident. They determined that when George hit Clark, he was not only drunk, but he was also traveling at least 80 miles per hour which is twenty-five miles over the posted speed limit. George has four prior DUI convictions and did not possess a valid driver’s license at the time of the accident.

Bramlett stated, “This is number five for George, and this time he took an innocent life. He is a danger to every single person reading this, as well as their families. Judge Ratcliff put him exactly where he needs to be, and for a proper and significant amount of time. Our prayers continue for the family and friends of Cheryl Clark, as they now continue their lives without her.”

Defendant:
Name: Jerodrick E. George
Date of Birth: 1/29/1988

Habitual Drug Dealer Convicted of Directing Drug Sales from Jail

Prior convicted felon, Lucas Howard, was found guilty by a Madison County jury of one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

In October of 2019, officers with the Madison County Sheriff’s Department began monitoring the outgoing jail phone calls of Howard as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation. Howard was in the detention center on other controlled substance charges. While listening to the phone calls, they discovered that Howard was continuing his drug enterprise through his girlfriend while in jail. He was directing her to go to Jackson and buy drugs and bring them back into Canton where she and others were intending to sell them out of Howard’s residence.

Upon further investigation, officers came into contact with his girlfriend and co-defendant, Alissa Washington, and discovered her bringing cocaine back from Jackson on November 2, 2019. Law enforcement officers found 26 grams of cocaine on her person after the traffic stop.

“You shouldn’t deal drugs, or commit any other crimes for that matter, while you are in jail. Mr. Howard had a lengthy and serious criminal record, and we hope that after this guilty verdict, he will receive the maximum allowed by law. He had been convicted at least three prior times for sale of cocaine. He is a habitual offender and a subsequent drug offender and will not be parole eligible. The Madison County Sheriff’s Department did an outstanding job investigating this case and ensuring his conviction.”

“People who show up for jury duty,” Bramlett continued, “are the reason we have been able to get three habitual offenders convicted this court term. Each of these men had lengthy drug histories and never seemed to learn their lesson. Now, they will be in prison for substantial amounts of time. Let this be a lesson to the drug dealers in our counties.”

Defendant:

Lucas Montel Howard AKA “Bam”

Date of Birth: 07/15/1979

Madison County Jury Convicts Habitual Drug Offender

Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced today that Torrey Powell of Canton was convicted by a jury of two counts of possession of methamphetamine after a two day jury trial. Powell is a habitual offender and subsequent drug offender that may be subjected to double the maximum sentence allowed by law without the eligibility of early release or parole. Judge Dewey Arthur set sentencing in this matter for Monday, March 28, 2022 at 9 a.m. at the Madison County Circuit Courthouse.

On April 29, 2020, an officer with the Madison Police Department made a routine traffic stop and encountered Powell, who was driving the car. There was also a female and infant child sitting in the backseat. Powell did not have a valid driver’s license or insurance and was asked to step out of the car so that the officer could attempt to run his information through dispatch. The officer patted him down for officer safety and felt a pill bottle in his front, pant pocket. Powell admitted the bottle contained ecstasy pills, methamphetamine, and heroin. The Mississippi Crime Lab tested two of the substances and found them both to contain methamphetamine – one in a pill form and one in powder form.

After an investigation into Powell’s criminal background, it was discovered that he had been previously convicted on at least nine separate occasions of felony offenses – most of them for drugs.

Last week, another Madison County jury convicted Carlos Dominque Allen of Sale of Fentanyl, Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Hydrocodone, and Possession of Amphetamine. Like Powell, he is a habitual offender and subsequent drug offender. His sentencing is also set for March 28, 2022 at 9 a.m. in front of Judge Dewey Arthur.

District Attorney Bramlett stated, “This is a prime example of the revolving door that is the criminal justice system at times. This was Torrey Powell’s tenth time to face felony charges. He had prior convictions in Oklahoma, Georgia, and Mississippi. I am so glad law enforcement was able to take these drugs off the street, and that the jurors of Madison County made it possible to take a convicted felon off the streets. He is facing a considerable amount of time for these offenses, and due to him being convicted as both a habitual offender and subsequent drug offender, we hope his eventual sentence will keep him from being parole eligible for a very long time.

Defendant:

Torrey Powell

Date of Birth: 12/22/1979

Fentanyl Dealer Found Guilty

Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced today that Carlos Dominique Allen of Jackson was convicted by a jury of Sale of Fentanyl, Trafficking of Fentanyl, Possession of Hydrocodone, and Possession of Amphetamine after a three day jury trial. Allen is a habitual offender and subsequent drug offender that may be subjected to a maximum sentence without the eligibility of early release or parole. Judge Dewey Arthur set sentencing in this matter for Monday, March 28, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at the Madison County Circuit Courthouse.

“This case originated from an overdose and death investigation that occurred in Madison County,” said District Attorney Bramlett. “In this particular case, the Madison Police Department was able to locate the source and purchase Fentanyl pills through the use of a cooperating witness.”

“Our law enforcement in Madison and Rankin Counties should be commended for their tireless efforts in ridding our communities of this deadly drug,” said District Attorney Bramlett. “The Madison Police Department kept over 150 potentially deadly pills of Fentanyl off the streets and out of the hands of our young people.”

Counterfeit pain pills are causing significant overdose deaths in Mississippi. These pills often contain fentanyl, an opioid that is 100 times more potent than morphine. While these pills look identical to medications such as hydrocodone, oxycodone or xanax, these counterfeit versions often contain fentanyl.

Defendant:

Carlos Dominique Allen

Date of Birth: 06/27/1988

Former UMMC Police Officer Convicted of Sexual Battery on a Child

Former UMMC Police Officer Justin Bradshaw was found guilty of one count of Sexual Battery of a child under age 14 after a 2-day trial in Madison County. The victim, a female child relative, said that the abuse began on a family beach trip when she was 7 or 8 years old and continued for several years until she disclosed the abuse at age 11. The victim testified that she kept the abuse a secret because Bradshaw said he would not love her anymore if she told her mother. The victim described many instances of sexual abuse that would occur multiple times a week after school in the afternoons while her mother was at work. The victim’s mother alerted law enforcement immediately after the child’s disclosure, and the Madison County Sheriff’s Department started an investigation. The child was taken to the Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center where she was administered a forensic interview. The interview was played for the jury during trial. Bradshaw took the stand in his defense and testified that he could not think of a reason for the victim to make up these allegations, only that she must have wanted him out of her life. After one hour of deliberation, the jury returned a verdict of guilty.

Bradshaw will be sentenced by Judge Steve Ratcliff on February 14, 2022. The minimum sentence for Sexual Battery of a child under age 14 is 20 years, with the maximum of life imprisonment. Any sentence Bradshaw receives will be served day-for-day, without the possibility of early release or parole. He will also be required by law to register as a sex offender.

District Attorney Bramlett stated, “This is a prime example of why you should always talk to your children about inappropriate behaviors and make sure that they know that they can always tell you anything – no matter what. Impress upon them that there is absolutely nothing they can do that would make you stop loving them. I am so thankful that this child finally told her mom what Bradshaw was doing to her. Four years of sexual abuse is horrific, but perhaps now she can truly begin the healing process. I am so thankful for the team that came together to get this guilty verdict, especially the Sheriff’s Office and the Children’s Advocacy Center. I would also like to thank, as always, all the jurors that showed up to jury duty, especially those that served in this case. We could not continue to make Madison and Rankin counties the safe places they are without people willing to come and serve.”

Defendant:

Name: Justin Miller Bradshaw

Date of Birth: 06/26/1989

Found guilty at trial of Sexual Battery – to be sentenced on February 14, 2022.