There was a surprising verdict today from a jury in Rochester. They found Jalen Everett not guilty in the Boys and Girls Club murders on Genesee Street. Everett left the Hall of Justice a short time later, a free man.
Everett’s first trial last fall ended in a conviction, but the judge set it aside after learning of possible jury misconduct.
Prosecutor Perry Duckles says they’re not happy but respect the process. He says he can’t say why this jury saw the evidence differently from the first jury.
Everett’s mother, Leslie Gordon, told reporters there are no winners here. She said her son spent two years behind bars and will always be connected with this case, while the families of the victims have still lost their loved ones.
Rochester Police Chief Michael Ciminelli says his department is disappointed in the Everett verdict, but will also respect the process.
Jalen Everett was accused of being in the SUV that sped by the Boys and Girls Club as Johnny Blackshell, Jr. fired an AK-47 into the crowd. He’s been found guilty on three murder charges and sentenced to life without parole.
A third suspect, Michael Mathis, goes on trial in June.