Rock Hill Man Receives 22-Year Sentence for Manslaughter in Fatal Drug Deal Shooting

Rock Hill Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Manslaughter in Drug Deal Shooting

Rock Hill, South Carolina – A 24-year-old man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for fatally shooting another man during a drug deal gone wrong. Jaelon Devon Kelly, who pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, faced the court on Monday, where the details of the incident were revealed.

Incident Details

The shooting took place on January 23, 2022, outside an apartment complex located off Celanese Road, west of Interstate 77. The victim, Deshawn Barnes, 27, was killed during what was supposed to be a marijuana transaction. The deal was allegedly arranged through the social media platform Instagram, as stated by prosecutor Marina Hamilton in York County criminal court.

Surveillance Evidence

According to Hamilton, surveillance footage showed Kelly ambushing Barnes by hiding behind a garbage bin before opening fire. Prior to the shooting, Kelly acquired the firearm weeks earlier from a sporting goods store. The nature of the transaction and the violent turn it took reveal a concerning intersection of drugs, social media, and firearms.

Plea Agreement and Sentencing

Initially charged with murder, Kelly ultimately accepted a plea deal that resulted in the manslaughter conviction, along with charges for possession of a weapon during a violent crime and attempting to purchase marijuana. Judge Dan Hall accepted the agreed-upon sentence of 22 years between the prosecution and Kelly’s attorney, Phil Smith, from the York County Public Defender’s office.

Considerations and Context

In court, Smith highlighted that Kelly had no prior criminal record, framing the case as a “cautionary tale.” He emphasized the dangers posed when drugs, guns, social media, and young individuals intersect. This incident underscores the growing issues surrounding youth involvement in criminal activities driven by substance abuse and weapon access.

Ongoing Investigations

While Kelly’s fate has been decided, the investigation is not over. Officials indicated that charges are still pending against several other individuals connected to this case. As the legal process unfolds, it remains to be seen how many more parties will be held accountable in the aftermath of this tragic event.

Community Impact

The incident has sent ripples through the Rock Hill community, calling attention to the need for increased awareness and prevention strategies regarding drug-related violence and gun safety among youth. As families reflect on the grave consequences of such actions, local leaders are urged to address these pressing issues to foster a safer environment.