Witness Intimidation Dismissed; First-Degree Murder & Conspiracy — Not Guilty

Witness Intimidation – MCL 750.122 – Dismissed

First Degree Murder (Premeditated, Conspiracy) – MCL 750.316 – Not Guilty (Jury)

First Degree Murder (Premeditated) – MCL 750.316 – Not Guilty (Jury)

Attorney Jordan’s client was charged with multiple homicide offenses: first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and witness intimidation. A conviction would have resulted in life imprisonment without parole.

The case involved the killing of a major crack dealer. The prosecution portrayed the deceased as a family man, while evidence showed he possessed large quantities of crack cocaine and cash at the time of his death. Over a 21-day trial, the prosecution introduced 150 exhibits and called 27 witnesses, including two experts.

During cross-examination, Attorney Jordan challenged the prosecution’s narrative, highlighting the dangers associated with the deceased’s drug activity and the long list of people who could have had motive to harm him.

In closing arguments, Attorney Jordan made a memorable point by reciting lyrics from Biggie Smalls’ “Ten Crack Commandments” to help the jury understand the reality and risks of the drug trade — emphasizing that any number of people could have committed the killing.

After six hours of deliberation, the jury returned Not Guilty verdicts on both first-degree murder charges. The charge of witness intimidation had already been dismissed.