News Summary
Savannah’s criminal justice system is overwhelmed by multiple murder trials and sentencing delays stemming from recent gun violence incidents. These cases include the tragic shooting of Travis Edwards and the subsequent trials of suspects involved in multiple homicides, highlighting community concerns over safety and judicial efficiency.
Savannah, Georgia – Shootings Lead to Multiple Murder Trials and Sentencing Delays
In a series of tragic incidents, Savannah’s criminal justice system is grappling with multiple murder trials and sentencing delays associated with gun violence that has affected the community. The events first began in May 2021 when a shooting at the Bricktowne Flats Apartments claimed the life of 20-year-old Travis Edwards.
Three men – Harold Jakarius Roberson, Terry Jerome Rucker, and Vazquez Lisan Coleman – were arrested in connection with Edwards’ death. Initially, the trio intended to purchase marijuana; however, the transaction escalated into an armed robbery resulting in Edwards being fatally shot. Following their convictions, Coleman was sentenced to five years in prison without parole, found guilty of attempting to purchase marijuana unlawfully. In contrast, both Roberson and Rucker faced more severe sentences due to their involvement in the murder. Each was convicted on six charges, including felony murder, and received life sentences with the possibility of parole.
As the dust from Edwards’ case settled, Roberson and Coleman found themselves entangled in yet another legal battle. They are facing trial for their alleged roles in the murders of 16-year-old Semaj Floyd and 20-year-old Omarion Whitfield, who suffered fatal gunshot wounds at the intersection of Amaranth Avenue and Perth Street on December 4, 2023. The indictment against Roberson, Coleman, and an accomplice named Joshua Reddick accuses them of attempting to rob the two victims during the incident. The three suspects were arrested following the shootings, with Roberson and Coleman apprehended in late 2024, while Reddick was captured on April 15, 2025, by US Marshals. Notably, these killings occurred while both Roberson and Coleman were out on bond for their earlier charges.
The trial for Roberson, Coleman, and Reddick is set to commence on September 29, 2025, as the community remains affected by the cycles of violence and the uncertain outcomes of the district’s legal proceedings.
In addition to these trials, Savannah is witnessing delays in a separate high-profile murder case involving 18-year-old Rodobaldo Quinton Portuondo. He has been charged in the February 10, 2024, murder of 19-year-old J’Quan Reed, who was found critically wounded downtown and later died in the hospital. Portuondo turned himself nine days post-shooting in Florida and faced extradition back to Chatham County. His trial delay stems from a scheduling conflict involving his attorney and the Medical Examiner’s unavailability, causing the presiding judge to express concerns about the slow progression of the case.
Moreover, the criminal court is also handling the case of 20-year-old Jaheim Mitchell, accused of fatally shooting Rashard Kinlaw in 2022. Kinlaw’s death occurred while police were investigating a crash scene on October 16, 2022. Mitchell faces multiple charges, including malice murder and felony murder. His trial has also experienced delays due to the Medical Examiner’s absence — another incident that has drawn attention to the efficiency of the judicial process in handling homicide cases.
With the serious implications of these cases, there is a growing concern within the Savannah community around gun violence and the judicial delays in bringing resolution to these tragedies. As time passes, the families of the victims continue to seek justice, while the local courts work to navigate a backlog of murder trials and sentencing hearings amid these ongoing challenges.
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Additional Resources
- WSAV: Jury Reaches Verdict in Bricktowne Flats Murder Trial
- WSAV: Key Witness Testifies in Savannah Murder Trial
- WTOC: Port Wentworth Murder Suspect Granted Bond
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminal Justice
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
