ATLANTA, April 3 (UPI) -- An Atlanta man was found guilty of murder for driving the getaway car when former boxing champion Vernon Forrest was robbed and killed, prosecutors said.
Jquante Crews, 28, was sentenced to life in prison without parole and given an additional sentence of 10 years, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Assistant District Attorney Yvette Brown said jurors deliberated for only a few hours Monday before convicting Crews of felony murder, malice murder, robbery and weapons charges.
Investigators said Forrest, 38, was robbed at an Atlanta gas station in 2009 of his world championship ring and a diamond Rolex watch. He was gunned down by another man as he pursued the thief.
Prosecutors said Crews, who helped the alleged shooter and the man convicted of robbing Forrest leave the scene, was a knowing participant. His lawyer said he was simply trying to help a friend and prevent more violence.
DeMario Ware was sentenced to life with no parole for the robbery. Charmon Sinkfield, who allegedly shot Forrest, is awaiting trial and could receive the death penalty if he is convicted.
