FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]
TAMPA, FL (May 15, 2026) — A Hillsborough County jury recommended sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole for defendants Isaiah Chance, Sean Gathright, Davion Murphy, and Rashad Murphy. They were convicted earlier this month of first-degree murder in the shooting death of Charles Jones, also known as Julio Foolio.
The recommendation followed a weeklong penalty phase where jurors heard testimony from the defendants’ family members as well as psychologists who testified about mitigating factors, including their upbringing and intellectual limitations. Prosecutors argued that the men carried out a coordinated attack as part of an ongoing gang conflict and sought the death penalty.
“We thank the jury for their service in this case and for the thoughtful consideration they gave to the evidence presented during both phases of this trial. While no outcome can undo the pain caused by this violence or bring Charles Jones back to his loved ones, today’s recommendation brings accountability and a measure of finality to the victim’s family,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez. “It’s also a reminder that if you bring violent crime into Hillsborough County, we will hold you accountable.”
Death Penalty Specialist Scott Harmon and Assistant State Attorneys Michelle Doherty and Anna Ismer successfully prosecuted this case. A judge will officially sentence the defendants at a hearing on June 22.