Michael Dunn, the 47-year-old man accused of killing 17-year-old Jordan Davis, has been found guilty of four of the five counts. Dunn sat silently as the court reporter announced guilty on three counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of shooting into an occupied vehicle. The jury remained deadlocked on the first-degree murder charges, and the judge declared a mistrial on that charge.
Judge Healey then thanked the jurors for their service and told them that they could speak with reporters if they chose to and then dismissed them. Healey then addressed Florida State Attorney Angela Corey, informing her that she can decide if she wants to pursue another trial on the first-degree murder charge on March 24 at 9 a.m.
Dunn will serve at least 60 years without the opportunity of parole as the three counts of second-degree murder for the shots fired at the other three teens in the vehicle carry 20 years apiece. The firearm charge can carry up to 15 years depending on the judges ruling.
At an emotional news conference after the verdict, both of Jordan Davis' parents spoke to reporters.
"It is very sad for Mr. Dunn that he will have to spend the rest of his life in his prison torture…we will pray for him and we will pray for his family." said Jordan's mother Lucia McBath.
"It's not in my nature to lash out, or to say inflammatory statements, so I've had to hold all that in… (But) my son was a good kid…he (Dunn) must be remorseful over the killing of my son. He must not be allowed to see it as another day at the office." said Ron Davis, Jordan's father.
Also reacting to the verdict was Benjamin Crump who has served as an attorney for Trayvon Martin's family.
“As much as we want to put faith in the criminal justice system, it seems to fail us every time. This verdict reminds me not only of Trayvon Martin, but of all our sons, brothers, cousins and friends. I”m filled with mixed emotions," said Mr. Crump.
He continued. "Yes, I am happy that Michael Dunn will live out the rest of his life behind bars, but I am also disturbed that Jordan Davis’ family has yet to receive justice. In the same way that Trayvon’s parents have yet to receive justice. If the American judicial system is truly colorblind, then why does it always seem to fall between the lines of black and white."