MARION, Ark. — Second Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Sonia F. Hagood announced today that Elijah Singleton, 24, was convicted of First Degree Murder following a trial that concluded on Thursday, January 9, 2024. Circuit Judge Randy Philhours followed the sentencing recommendation of the jury and sentenced Singleton to life in prison without the possibility of parole, as well as an additional 15 years for the use of a firearm in the commission of the homicide.
“This was a senseless act of violence. Ms. Hampton’s family will always miss her, but we pray they can rest easier at night knowing a Crittenden County jury took care of their community and sentenced this dangerous individual to life,” said Prosecuting Attorney Hagood. “I want to thank our jurors for their service and dedication to this important case. We also want to commend the West Memphis Police Department Criminal Investigations Division on their dedication and work in this case.”
The crime occurred on October 8, 2022, when Singleton and the victim, Jakeya Hampton, were engaged in an argument over Facebook Messenger regarding a cell phone that Singleton had stolen from Hampton on October 4, 2022. Singleton and Hampton had been in a dating relationship, but Ms. Hampton had attempted to end the relationship and retrieve her phone. Singleton lured Hampton to meet him in West Memphis, Arkansas, where he shot her in the head on Scottwood Street, ending her life.
The case was prosecuted by Prosecuting Attorney Sonia F. Hagood and Crittenden County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tiarra Tanner. Throughout the trial, both attorneys emphasized the tragic nature of the crime and the devastating impact on Hampton’s family and community.
“The sentencing today underscores Crittenden County’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for acts of violence, especially those that tear at the fabric of our communities,” said Hagood. “It is our duty to ensure justice for victims of domestic violence and to send a strong message that we will not tolerate such senseless acts. Importantly, anyone who believes they can act with impunity should think again – Crittenden County will hold them accountable.”
press release
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