Shantwan Dantarius Strickland, a 31-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on August 1, 2018, in Selma, North Carolina. Shantwan, affectionately known as "Heavy," was found inside a home at 410 W. Preston Street with a fatal gunshot wound. Despite efforts by officers to perform CPR, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into Shantwan's death led to the arrest of Jamie R. Dupree, a 38-year-old male from Selma. Dupree was charged with first-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, and felony breaking and entering. The State Bureau of Investigation assisted the Selma police in the investigation. Dupree had a history of run-ins with the law, including a previous incident in 2011 where he led police on a vehicle chase.
The case went to trial, and on July 28, 2023, a Johnston County jury found Dupree guilty of second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Dupree was sentenced to a minimum of 23 years and a maximum of 28 years and 8 months in prison. The prosecution was handled by Assistant District Attorneys Keith Gordon and Jimmy Wilson, with assistance from Susannah Horton, a law student. The verdict was seen as a significant step towards justice for Shantwan's family.
Shantwan's death and the subsequent trial had a profound impact on the Selma community. The Selma Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation were commended for their diligent work in bringing the case to a resolution. The community mourned the loss of Shantwan, remembering him as a beloved individual whose life was tragically cut short.
