Otis Sanford Sentenced to Life Plus Five Years for 2004 Murder of Ex-Girlfriend

Defendant Guilty in Shooting Death of Veronica Corbett

Atlanta—Fulton County District Attorney Paul L. Howard, Jr. (Atlanta Judicial Circuit) announces that, following his conviction, Otis Sanford (57) has been sentenced to life in prison plus five years (to be served consecutively) for the 2004 shooting death of Veronica Corbett (37).  Sanford was found guilty of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

On 1 October 2004, the defendant arrived at a house at 1083 Ollie Circle in northwest Atlanta to confront Ms. Corbett, with whom he had had a romantic relationship.  When she refused to speak with him, Sanford went outside to his truck and then returned, barging in to the house.  The defendant fired two shots at Ms. Corbett, striking her once.  He then fled the scene but was later apprehended in Illinois. The dying victim was able to tell police at the scene, "Otis Sanford shot me."

Senior Assistant District Attorney Charles Webb and Assistant District Attorney Kimberly Esmond prosecuted the case.  City of Atlanta Police Detective J. Brown, along with Crispin Henry of the District Attorney's Office, investigated.  Judge Stephanie Manis presided.

CONTACT: Erik Friedly, 404.224.0560 (office); 770.583.6069 (pager); erik.friedly@co.fulton.ga.us