A Central Florida 16-year-old was arrested for a 2022 homicide during a drug deal that resulted in the shooting death of a 16-year-old victim.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said it has now arrested the final suspect involved in the 2022 murder case.
According to law enforcement, 16-year-old Tony Shepard Jr. has been arrested for his role in a homicide that occurred on November 23, 2022 on Lake Chapman Drive near Tampa during a drug deal gone bad, which resulted in the shooting and death of a 16-year-old victim.
Through investigative means, Shepard Jr. was identified as the driver in this incident.
With Shepard Jr.’s arrest, all suspects 17-year-old Jamerius Bennefield, 16-year-old Jyi’Keem Henry, 17-year-old Demitrus Bailey have been arrested in connection with this homicide case.
On June 4th, detectives obtained a court-authorized search warrant of Shepard Jr.’s residence, where they seized illegal drugs, firearms, and money.
Shepard Jr. is facing charges of:
- Minor in Possession of a Firearm
- Grand Theft Firearm
- Armed Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, Manufacture, or Deliver within 1000 Feet of a Church
- Carrying Concealed Firearm
- Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Robbery
“This investigation highlights the relentless efforts of our detectives to ensure that victims and their families receive justice, no matter how long it takes,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones. It is our hope this helps bring them closure, knowing that justice will be served.”
