JAMES COOPER FACES LIFE IN PRISON FOR MURDER OF JOHN ATKINS

DEFENDANT FOUND GUILTY IN 2003 SHOOTING, ROBBERY

Atlanta—Fulton County District Attorney Paul L. Howard, Jr. (Atlanta Judicial Circuit) announces that James Cooper (27) has been found guilty of murder, felony murder (two counts), aggravated assault, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony (two counts) for the 19 April 2003 murder of John Atkins (49). Mr. Atkins was emptying the coin dispenser at his business, Johnny's Laundromat; located at 893 York Avenue in southwest Atlanta, when Cooper approached him, drew a gun, and demanded the money. He then shot Mr. Atkins six times before fleeing the scene. Cooper faces life in prison when he is sentenced next week.

Senior Assistant District Attorney Ron Boyter prosecuted the case; Atlanta Police Detective A.B. Calhoun investigated; and Judge Constance Russell presided.

CONTACT: Erik Friedly, 404-224-0560 (office); 404-533-1381 (pager)