TAMPA, Fla. – A judge has ruled that three defendants accused in the shooting death of Charles Jones, known by his stage name “Julio Foolio,” will be held without bond until their trial.
The State Attorney’s Office successfully argued that Isaiah Chance, Sean Gathright, and Alicia Andrews pose a continued danger to the community after allegedly plotting, along with two other defendants, to murder the popular rapper.
Assistant State Attorney Michelle Doherty argued against granting bond for Chance, Gathright, and Andrews, citing their disregard for public safety and the risk of further harm. The defendants reportedly tracked Jones and his friends to multiple locations before ambushing and killing him at a hotel near the University of South Florida in June. Three others were also injured in the shootings.
Related: Three Arrested, Two Wanted In Targeted Gang-Related Killing Of Julio Foolio In Tampa
Chief Judge Christopher Sabella heard testimony from the lead detective, who presented substantial evidence linking the three to the murder. This included surveillance footage, text messages, and location data showing a coordinated effort to track Jones to an event in Tampa, culminating in the fatal attack.
“Each of the three defendants played a role in the ambush and brutal murder of Charles Jones. The evidence of this coordinated attack is overwhelming, and our community is safer with them behind bars,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez. “Our prosecutors will continue to build a strong case as we move towards trial, seeking justice for the victims and their families.”
Two additional defendants, Davion Murphy and Rashad Murphy, also face murder charges related to the crime. Rashad Murphy has been arrested in Jacksonville and is awaiting transfer to Hillsborough County, while Davion Murphy remains at large.
Anyone with information that could assist in the ongoing investigation is urged to contact the Tampa Police Department at 813-231-6130 or Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay at 800-873-TIPS.
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