As we observe Juneteenth, we recognize a defining moment in our nation’s history—the day when the promise of freedom was finally extended to those who had long been denied it.
On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas and brought the good news to the enslaved people there that the Civil War was over, Emancipation complete, and they were free. It’s a holiday that people of all races should enjoy and celebrate.
Juneteenth gives us an opportunity to reflect on both our history and our progress. It reminds us that the pursuit of justice is an ongoing responsibility—one that requires us to learn from the past while continuing to work toward a better future.
At the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, we do our part by striving to hold offenders accountable while also ensuring that justice is administered fairly and impartially. Our responsibility is not only to prosecute crime, but to do so in a way that is consistent with the principles of equal justice under the law.
Public safety depends on accountability, but it also depends on public trust. That trust is not only good in and of itself, but it makes it more likely that the public will cooperate with law enforcement by providing tips, reporting crimes, serving as witnesses—the public cooperation that is essential if we are to continue to the significant downward trend in crime we’ve enjoyed these past 2 and a half years.
As we come upon Juneteenth Weekend, let’s all take a moment to reflect on our country’s trouble past, the progress we’ve made, and the progress still to come—including the role each of us can play in building a stronger, safer, and more just community.
A beautiful Juneteenth to you and your families.
Defendant Sentenced to 14 Years in Fatal Vehicular Homicide Of Good Samaritan: Assistant District Attorney Shannon Mason successfully handled the case of Michael King, who pleaded guilty on Tuesday, June 2, to Vehicular Homicide by Intoxication and received the State’s recommended sentence of 14 years at 100%.
Mason secured the guilty plea and sentence in connection with the death of 19-year-old Halie Jade Herron Ramirez.
The case stems from a May 28, 2023 incident in which King drove under the influence of alcohol and methamphetamine and struck Ramirez. At the time, Ramirez had stopped to check on another wrecked vehicle to see if anyone needed assistance and was on the phone with 911 when she was hit. King was later indicted on a Class B Felony charge of Vehicular Homicide by Intoxication. His guilty plea resolved the case and resulted in a 14-year sentence to be served at 100%.
ADA Shannon Mason handled the case.
$500,000 Bond Set in First-Degree Murder Case: Chief Prosecutor Carrie Bush successfully handled the bond hearing for Maury Kennedy, who is charged with First-Degree Murder, Theft of Property Over $10,000, and related offenses. Following the June 15, 2026 hearing in Criminal Court Division 4, the court set Kennedy’s bond at $500,000.
Bush presented the State’s position regarding the seriousness of the charges and the circumstances surrounding the case. Kennedy remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
The case stems from a fatal shooting at a gas station on Elvis Presley Boulevard that was followed by a police pursuit through South Memphis. Prosecutors allege Kennedy shot a woman in the parking lot before fleeing the scene in a vehicle that had been reported stolen. Officers initiated a pursuit after observing the vehicle leave the area, and investigators allege Kennedy later struck an MPD patrol vehicle before his car became disabled. The victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition and later died from her injuries. Investigators also recovered approximately 100 grams of marijuana from the stolen vehicle.
Chief Prosecutor Carrie Bush handled the hearing.
DA Mulroy Speaks at the 4th Annual National Prosecutorial AI & Data Summit
DA Mulroy recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to speak at the 4th Annual National Prosecutorial AI & Data Summit hosted by the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. During the event, he gave a presentation on how the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office is leveraging AI and data to enhance its work and inform decision-making.
The summit brought together elected prosecutors, attorneys, and data scientists from across the country to explore emerging trends and innovations in prosecution.
“It’s sometimes overlooked that this is the West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force. We focus on the connection between violence and the drug trade. This case is a good example,” Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy said in a statement. |Felon arrested after Memphis hotel raid, accused of selling fentanyl, meth| via WREG 3
Assistant District Attorney Cody Tolbert, who prosecuted the case on behalf of the state, said the sentence reflects accountability for a life taken.
“While no sentence can undo the harm caused by this senseless act of violence, we hope today’s outcome provides a measure of justice for Dr. Nelson’s loved ones and all those impacted by her loss,” Tolbert said in the news release. |Woman sentenced in 2022 killing of Yvonne Nelson| via Daily Memphian
Paul Hagerman, Deputy District Attorney in the Shelby County DA’s Office, was the lead prosecutor, among several investigators and U.S. Marshals who shared details about the case in a new true crime podcast named Chasing Evil created by Emmy Award-winning producer Chris Godsick. |Emmy-winning producer launches true crime podcast on Young Dolph murder investigation| via WMC 5
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