Sentencing Set for Three Vaughn Defendants
Judge William Carpenter has set a sentencing date of September 13 at 9:30am for the three Vaughn defendants – Dwayne Staats, Jarreau Ayres and Royal Downs.
Dwayne Staats was the only defendant found guilty of 1st degree murder in the death of Correctional Officer Lt. Steven Floyd. Staats was also found guilty of other charges including riot, assault, kidnapping and conspiracy. Staats was already serving a life sentence for 1st degree murder.
Jarreau Ayers was not found guilty in the murder of Lt. Floyd, but was found guilty of riot, assault, kidnapping and conspiracy. He was already serving a life sentence for 1st degree murder and other charges.
Royal Downs while named in the original 18 indictments was not charged with murder. He pleaded guilty kidnap, riot and conspiracy.
