District Attorney Paul Howard Announces Guilty Plea in "Christian City" Triple Murder

Defendant Sentenced to Two Consecutive Life Terms Plus 10 Years

Atlanta-Fulton County District Attorney Paul L. Howard, Jr. (Atlanta Judicial Circuit) announces that, following his guilty plea, Octavious Stready (19) has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus 10 years in prison for his part in a 14 August 2002 incident in which the defendant-along with Siemontray Bryum (16)-shot and killed John Michael Shore (26) and Allison Lynn Smith (19) in a robbery at the intersection of Azalea Drive and Red Oak Road in Union City. The pair then shot and killed Christian City security guard Danny Tucker (53) when he happened upon them at the entrance to the complex on Dogwood Drive. Stready pleaded guilty to 10 felony counts including murder (three counts), felony murder (three counts), aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (three counts), and armed robbery.

"But for the age of one of these defendants, this case would have unquestionably called for the death penalty, such was the viciousness of these acts," says Mr. Howard. "Considering this, consecutive life sentences are entirely appropriate."

Charges against Bryum are still pending.

Senior Assistant District Attorney Holly Hughes prosecuted the case; Union City Police Investigator C. Odom investigated; and Judge Marvin Arrington presided.

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