Daniels, Evans Get Life Prison Sentences
posted May 16, 2008
Two leaders of the Skyline Bloods gang were found guilty of first-degree murder on Friday afternoon in the retaliation slaying of Adrian Patton.
Michael Daniels and Timothy Evans both face life prison sentences.
They were found guilty of pre-meditated first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Daniels was also found guilty of unlawfully carrying a weapon.
Evans had told the jury he was ordered to kill Patton by Daniels, who believed that Patton was involved in firing shots at his sister's residence.
Prosecutor Neal Pinkston said, "This case shows there is a gang problem in Chattanooga. Hopefully, these verdicts, which carry life prison sentences, will send a message to gang members."
Members of the Patton family rejoiced outside the courtroom.
The victim's aunt, Gloria Griffin, said, "We've waited two years for this. They got what they deserved. He was killed for nothing."
She added, "This city needs to take control of these gangs. People are losing lives and it is hurting families."
According to testimony, Patton drove over in his truck to the Emma Wheeler Homes to see Daniels to assure him he was not part of the shooting of his sister's residence.
He talked briefly with Daniels, who then walked back and allegedly told Evans, "Handle this, Piru." Piru is a term used by the Bloods.
Evans then stepped up and fired repeatedly at Patton at close range. The victim tried to drive away, then collapsed. The truck veered out of control and ran into a unit at the end of 48th Street.
There will be a sentencing before Judge Rebecca Stern on July 28 on the conspiracy charges. The defendants face 15-25 years on that count.
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