A Hillsborough County jury returned guilty verdicts on May 8, 2026, against all four defendants, Isaiah Chance, Sean Gathright, Rashad Murphy, and Davion Murphy, on charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder [1][2]. The prosecution alleged that the killing was premeditated and gang-related, targeting Jacksonville rapper Charles Jones, known professionally as Julio Foolio [1]. The case reached trial in Tampa after the June 23, 2024, shooting death of Jones, which prosecutors framed as a coordinated, planned attack rather than a spontaneous act [1][2].
Jurors deliberated more than seven hours before returning their verdicts [2]. All four defendants were convicted on both counts, first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, leaving no partial acquittals or hung counts in the case [1][2]. The prosecution's theory of gang-related conspiracy held across all defendants, a result that carries significant consequences heading into the next phase of proceedings.
Because the convictions include first-degree murder, Florida law triggers a penalty phase in which the jury will consider whether to recommend life imprisonment or the death penalty for each defendant [1][2]. A sentencing date had not been announced as of the verdict [2]. Under Florida's capital sentencing framework, the jury's recommendation is advisory, and the trial judge will impose the final sentence.
No post-trial motions or appeal filings had been reported as of the verdict date. Defense counsel options at the penalty phase and on direct appeal remain open, particularly given the multi-defendant structure of the case and the gang-conspiracy theory that tied all four convictions together [2].