TAMPA, Fla. – The attorney for one of the five people accused in the ambush killing of Charles Jones — also known as Jacksonville rapper “Julio Foolio” — has asked for their client to be evaluated by a forensic neuropsychologist.
The motion filed by Rashad Murphy’s attorney indicates the possibility of an insanity defense in what prosecutors have said could be a death penalty case.
Investigators say Murphy is one of three men who fired shots at Jones the night he was ambushed in an attack in a Tampa hotel parking lot in June while celebrating his 26th birthday.
Detectives say the deadly assault, which was captured on surveillance video, was the result of a deadly and ongoing gang feud in Jacksonville.
(Warning: The surveillance video, released by police, shows the shooting and is graphic. Viewer discretion is advised.)
Isaiah Chance, 21, Alicia Andrews, 21, and Sean Gathright, 18, were arrested in Jacksonville in late July in connection with Jones’ murder and have pleaded not guilty in Hillsborough County.
Rashad Murphy was arrested separately after a SWAT standoff at the Collins Preserve apartments in July. His cousin, Davion Murphy, is still being sought by police.
Investigators say it was Gathright, Rashad Murphy and Davion Murphy who fired shots at Jones the night he was killed after Chance and Andrews tracked and followed Jones and his entourage to multiple locations in Tampa.
The motion from Rashad Murphy’s attorney asks the court to hire a forensic neuropsychologist to put together a comprehensive report on Rashad.
If granted, Rashad would undergo an extensive clinical interview as well as psychological testing. The process would also review his school records, employment history, hospital and medical records, and interviews with people close to him.
Again, prosecutors say they are considering the death penalty in this case.
Anyone with information that could assist in this ongoing investigation is asked to call the Tampa Police Department at 813-231-6130, or contact Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay at 800-873-TIPS.