News Summary
A jury trial for Rodobaldo Quinton Portuondo, accused of murdering 19-year-old J’Quan Reed, has been postponed due to scheduling conflicts and plea negotiations. The delay arises as the defense seeks to review crucial discovery materials, including a video of the crime scene response. With a judge’s reminder of the importance of rescheduling, no new trial date has been set yet. Portuondo faces several serious charges, and the ongoing case draws community attention amidst concerns over rising gun violence in Savannah.
Savannah – A jury trial for Rodobaldo Quinton Portuondo, the 18-year-old accused of murdering 19-year-old J’Quan Reed, has been postponed due to scheduling conflicts and an ongoing plea negotiation. The trial, which has not yet been rescheduled, is delayed as the defense seeks to review pertinent discovery materials, including a brief video showing law enforcement’s response to the crime scene.
Attorney James Byrne filed a motion last month, indicating that a scheduling conflict is the primary reason for the delay. Additionally, there is an ongoing discussion regarding a plea offer with Portuondo and his family, which may impact future trial proceedings. The Medical Examiner’s absence from town is also contributing to the postponement, limiting access to vital evidence needed for the case.
A judge involved in the case expressed the importance of adhering to any newly set trial dates, reminding all parties involved that Portuondo was arraigned nearly a year ago. As of now, no new date has been announced for the upcoming trial.
Portuondo faces serious charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and three counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He stands accused of fatally shooting J’Quan Reed on February 10, 2024. Police found Reed critically injured at the intersection of Barnard Street and Bay Lane that night, and he later succumbed to his injuries at Memorial Hospital.
The incident occurred during a weekend that saw a notable spike in gun violence in Savannah, with multiple shootings reported in the area. Reed’s death was particularly troubling, as it marked one of two fatal shootings that weekend, drawing significant public and media attention.
Following the shooting, Portuondo turned himself in to authorities in Bradenton Beach, Florida, nine days after the incident. He was subsequently booked into the Manatee County Jail and later extradited back to Chatham County to face charges related to the murder.
Reports indicate that Portuondo may have affiliations with a local gang known as ‘West Savannah’, which could further complicate the case. The defense and prosecution are currently awaiting further evidence, including the Medical Examiner’s findings, to proceed with the trial.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community and Reed’s family await updates, hoping for justice following the tragic events that led to the young man’s death.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Murder Trial Delayed for Teen with Alleged West Savannah Gang Ties
- Google Search: Murder Trial Savannah
- Court TV: Trial for Dead Dismembered Wife
- Wikipedia: Criminal Trial
- WTOC: Trial Delayed in 2022 Savannah Homicide
- Google Scholar: Savannah Homicide Case
- WSAV: Mistrial Declared in 2020 Savannah Motel Murder Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Legal Trial
- Savannah Now: Chatham County Georgia Court Updates
- Google News: Savannah Court Updates
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.
