College Athlete Cleared of Murder After Defense Uncovers Truth Behind Group Shooting Incident

Carroll County, GA – July 31, 2018 – In a case that underscores both the power of a strong legal defense and the importance of context in the justice system, Attorney Zakiya Watson-Caffe, Esq., of Watson Law LLC, successfully defended a college student-athlete who was wrongfully charged with murder. Thanks to a thorough and compelling defense, all charges — including murder, aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence — were ultimately dismissed.

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Case Background

In May 2018, a dean’s list college athlete returned home during a school break to visit friends. While spending time with the group, an altercation broke out between two other individuals, escalating to gunfire. Tragically, one person was killed and another seriously injured.

Despite having no involvement in the conflict, Watson Law’s client was arrested along with everyone else present and charged with murder, aggravated assault, and tampering with evidence.

Attorney Zakiya Watson-Caffe swiftly began building a defense grounded in truth and evidence. Her approach included:

  • ✅ Conducting an extensive case review
  • ✅ Presenting critical defense arguments at the probable cause hearing
  • ✅ Highlighting the client’s lack of involvement in the crime
  • ✅ Demonstrating inconsistencies in the State’s accusations
  • ✅ Negotiating dismissal of all charges

Results and Dismissal

  • 🟨 Murder and aggravated assault charges were dismissed at the probable cause hearing
  • 🟨 The remaining tampering with evidence charge was later dropped
  • 🟨 The court found insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution

The decision was officially entered into the record on July 31, 2018, in the Superior Court of Carroll County.

Lasting Impact on the Client

Despite being found innocent, the ordeal had a profound effect on the client’s life:

  • ❌ The client lost a full academic scholarship
  • ❌ Was initially expelled from college
  • ✅ The expulsion was reversed after the case was dismissed
  • ❌ However, the scholarship was not reinstated, and the client was unable to return to school due to financial hardship
  • ❌ The client also suffered trauma as a witness to a senseless act of violence

Attorney Statement

“This case shows how easily an innocent person can get caught in the justice system. My client was not involved in the crime but was still arrested and charged. We fought hard to clear their name, and while justice was served in court, the emotional and personal cost was still profound.”

— Zakiya Watson-Caffe, Esq., Managing Attorney, Watson Law LLC

About Watson Law LLC

Watson Law LLC is a results-driven law firm with a strong focus on criminal defense and small business legal counsel. Led by Attorney Zakiya Watson-Caffe, Esq., the firm is committed to protecting the rights of individuals across Georgia. Known for their tenacity, empathy, and legal precision, Watson Law LLC has a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes in complex cases.

Contact Information

Watson Law LLC

📍 800 Kennesaw Avenue, Suite 220, Marietta, GA 30060

📞 (404) 600-1771

📧 zak@zwatsonlaw.com

🌐 CriminalAttorneyinGeorgia.com

For legal representation or media inquiries, contact Watson Law LLC today.