Stanley Brent Chatman: A Detailed Account of His Crimes
Early Life and Background
Stanley Brent Chatman, born around 1988 in Birmingham, Alabama, faced significant hardships from an early age. His mother was tragically shot to death when he was just two years old. At 16, Chatman himself became a victim of a shooting. These traumatic experiences led him to adopt a "shoot first" mentality to avoid being victimized. He largely raised himself on the streets, which influenced his later actions.
Criminal History
2005: The Killing of Derrick Jackson
On August 27, 2005, 17-year-old Derrick Jackson was shot outside the McAlpine Recreation Center at 1115 Avenue F in Ensley. Chatman was arrested shortly after the incident. During the trial, he was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 15 years in prison. After serving more than half of his sentence, Chatman was released in November 2012.
2013: The Murder of Derrick King
In March 2013, Chatman became involved in an argument with his ex-girlfriend over a cell phone, which escalated into physical violence. Subsequently, he encountered Derrick King, his ex-girlfriend's cousin, who allegedly threatened him. Later, at his family's residence at 517 10th Court North, Chatman saw King arguing with his sister. Believing his sister was in danger, Chatman shot and killed King. However, his sister testified that King had not threatened her and was unarmed. Chatman was arrested and charged but released on a $75,000 bond.
June 2013: The Wylam Twin Murders
On June 28, 2013, Chatman, along with two other men, allegedly broke into a home at 736 Attalla Street in Wylam. Inside, 17-year-old twin brothers Jeremi and Johnathan Berry were playing video games. Their mother, LaTasha Berry, arrived home during the invasion. Attempting to flee, she was shot and left paralyzed. The intruders then re-entered the house and killed the twins. Chatman was arrested and charged with capital murder, while the other suspects remained at large. Crystal Nelson, believed to be the getaway driver, was also arrested and charged with felony murder.
Victims
- Derrick Jackson: 17-year-old male, killed on August 27, 2005, outside the McAlpine Recreation Center at 1115 Avenue F in Ensley.
- Derrick King: 31-year-old male, killed in March 2013 at 517 10th Court North in Birmingham.
- Jeremi Berry: 17-year-old male, killed on June 28, 2013, at 736 Attalla Street in Wylam.
- Johnathan Berry: 17-year-old male, killed on June 28, 2013, at 736 Attalla Street in Wylam.
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