CONVICTED DRUG DEALER CONVICTED OF MURDER

Defendant’s Attempt to Keep Police Away from Drug Dealings Leads to Murder

Atlanta— Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard announces the conviction of Antonio Porter of Atlanta on charges of murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Fulton County jury returned the verdict in the 3 day trial this morning. The 26-year-old Porter was immediately sentenced by Superior Court Judge Wendy Shoob to life plus five years to be served consecutively.

Nineteen-year-old Branden King was shot 4 times outside the Columbia Hills Apartments at 3450 Forest Park Road in Atlanta on Monday night September 20, 2004. Earlier in the day, Porter had tried to quiet King and his girlfriend who were arguing. The convicted drug dealer was worried the fight would “bring the police down on us.” Witnesses testified King was outside talking with a group of friends when Porter pulled a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and began firing. King was struck in the head, chest, arm and hand. He died at the scene.

Senior Assistant District Attorney Shondeana Morris was assisted in the prosecution of this case by Fulton County Investigator Frederick Hall and Atlanta Police Detective R. Vasquez. District Attorney Howard says he “deplores the senseless loss of life exemplified by this case, but is satisfied the system has worked to bring justice to the victim’s family.”

CONTACT: Lyn Vaughn, 404.730.6860 (office); 404.597.6963 (pager); lyn.vaughn@co.fulton.ga.us