He has grown up, he's doing what he is supposed to do, says McQueen. . One year on three questions Curtis Hill does not want us asking. Family and friends welcomed him back to Elkhart Friday night with a gathering at Hunter 's Place men into. They planned to burglarize the house; the homeowner surprised them, firing a gun. He fired at them, injuring 16-year-old Blake Layman and killing 21-year-old Danzele Johnson. Like a burglary charge and watching there friend die wouldnt have been enough. "I'll take it." That's what Blake Layman one of the 'Elkhart 4' says about decisions from the Court of Appeals of Indiana. The five were not armed and thought the house was vacant. Blake Layman was sentenced to 55 years in prison after being convicted of felony murder in a home invasion gone wrong. There was a point in there where I just thought it was a done deal. Judge Terry Shewmaker denied this request and sentenced a sixteen-year-old boy to 45 years in prison for a murder he did not do. There is simply no way for Just Us to improve upon or add anything to the case of the Elkhart 4 other than to point out that these four boys are individual of their cases. Is Curtis Hill using the case of The Elkhart 4 to expand the felony murder rule in Indiana? In October of 2012, he served as a lookout as four friends broke in to what they believed was an empty home. Had Mr. Hill selected burglary there would have been a good chance at a plea deal saving taxpayer money in court fees, appeal costs and the excessive cost of sending these boys to prison for decades. There is also another wonderful buzz phrase Let the punishment fit the crime. "This is what we've being waiting on for a long time. It was eventually overturned in federal court and Sparks was released in January 2016 after serving three and a half years. Watched all the shows and read these blogs. But after a long appeals process that took the case up to the Indiana State Supreme Court, Sparks and two others, Anthony Sharp, 21, Blake Layman, 19, had their convictions overturned last fall and were re-sentenced last month on a lesser charge. When Scott heard the intruders, he sprang from bed and fired a handgun at them. Suspect formally charged in attack outside University Park Mall, Notre Dame football announces 2023 schedule with video game-themed promo, Man accused of armed robbery at grocery store on Hively Avenue, Desmont Upchurch announces candidacy for mayor, Water temporarily shut off in area of Wolcottville for repair, Trafficking Tragedy: How pandemic travel restrictions may have exacerbated fentanyl crisis, Trafficking Tragedy: Austin's story, how one pill can end a life, Trafficking Tragedy: DEA warns of deadly rise in fentanyl. Well, I think that -that was an unjustly charge an sentence for each of those boys especially for Levi. On Tuesday, Layman will celebrate one year at his current job. "Indiana Man, 21, Who Was Sentenced to 50 Years in Prison in 'Elkhart 4' Controversial Felony Murder Case, Enjoys Freedom, By Jasmine . Although the fight for Laymans justice is finally over, his family says theyll continue to fight for his future. A life, Layman says, is only just now beginning. Ruled Layman would instead be sentenced to 55 years and Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp to. Ready for a good night's sleep for the first time in forever.. The felony murder statute in Indiana states: A person who killsanother human being while committing or attempting to commit arson, burglary, child molesting, consumer product tampering, criminal deviate conduct, kidnapping, rape, robbery, human trafficking, promotion of human trafficking, sexual trafficking of a minor or carjacking . In September 2015 the felony murder convictions for Blake Layman, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp were vacated by the Indiana Supreme Court. Is this true? ABC News' Nightline has been following the "Elkhart Fours" story for more than two years. Is this true? Or something like that? To our knowledge no DNA or fingerprint tests were done on the knife and nothing has been mentioned in the appellate briefs about this. On Aug. 22, 2013, a jury convicted all three of felony murder. All were charged as adults. Others were held responsible for the death of their friend 21-year-old Danzele Johnson during home! Intimate, soothing, and introspective, "Unhistoric Acts" is a quietly charming reflection on existence and being brimming with joy, sadness, gratitude, and more. This sickens me to death. Hopefully theyre spending their long days getting educated and taking advantage of whatever is being offered. I can get anything done, said Layman. In our opinion this case demonstrates a huge overreach of the criminal justice system. We were not going to give up. In February 2014, attorneys for Layman and Sparks began the appeals process and the Indiana Public Defender Council also filed court documents on their behalf. Debbie McQueen, Blake elkhart 4 blake layman 2020 s justice is finally over, said Debbie McQueen, Layman says is! via WBND-LD: ELKHART, Ind. His family and friends welcomed him back to Elkhart Friday night with a gathering at Hunter's Place. I didnt think Id ever see this day. Layman says hes a different person than who he was at 16-years-old. Levi Sparks (age 17) waited on the porch of the house across the street. These broke into a home in Elkhart, Indiana with no weapons only with the intent to rob a house. Science and recent court decisions have stressed the significant difference between adolescents and adults in criminal culpability. The second of the Elkhart 4 is officially a free man. While serving time at Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, Layman fell in love with learning and earned his GED. I think it was way harsh sentencing for a thing they did not do and the fact that homeowners can go, shoot and kill just because its their property I hope they will get a lower sentencing very soon!!! Levi Sparks, ) Appeal from the Elkhart Circuit Court ) Appellant, ) ) v. ) Case No. Published on January 17, 2014 Although they didnt pull the trigger, Danzeles friends, 16-year-olds Blake Layman and Jose Quiroz, 17-year-old Levi Sparks and 18-year-old Anthony Sharp now known as the Elkhart 4 were charged with his murder and sentenced to 45 to 55 years in prison. This blog gets a lot of questions, here is a collection of the main questions that have been asked of us. All content Copyright 2021 WBND. He vowed not to "start doing stupid stuff again.". the second, about a murder plot, is way off for one simple reason, no evidence, none whatsoever has every been presented suggesting that is even a tiny possibility. Yes I know they made a bad choice by breaking into someones home which I agree as a homeowner you should be able to protect, but to give these kids 50 plus years for something they did not have the intent to do is crazzzzzyyyy!!! The homeowner, who was sleeping upstairs, woke up and grabbed his gun. Articles. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. ELKHART A new documentary on the Elkhart Four opens with the 911 call from the fatal event that changed the lives of the young men involved. Johnson, 21, was shot and killed by the homeowner. In most states felony murder can only be charged if an innocent person is killed, not if the person who is killed is a perpetrator. I heard The Elkhart 4 had knives. Blake s extremely dedicated to his family and their future says. Layman Comes home 04/04/2016 11:11 am PDT WBND-LD this is what we ve been backbone Welcomed him back to normalcy the Court of Appeals of Indiana in it finally being over . No one is perfect, I know. Blake Layman, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp were given a lesser charge. Layman is expected to be released sometime this year, and Sharp is scheduled for release in May 2018. The police officer thought the knife was unimportant and left it be. GOSHEN The family and friends of Blake Layman, Anthony Sharp and Levi Sparks, part of the Elkhart Four, hugged and clapped with joy after the three young men were In September, the Supreme Court overturned the felony murder convictions and ruledLaymanwould instead be sentenced to burglary. JASMINE BROWN, LAUREN EFFRON and SALLY HAWKINS. The joy coming of him coming out of that gate and hugging everybody and the tears coming down his face. Blake Layman, Levi Sparks and the rest of the Elkhart Four were charged with felony murder in the death of Danzele Johnson, pictured here, even though none of them pulled the trigger. 'Elkhart 4': Teens charged with murder of friend killed in break-in 02/29/2016 12:38 pm PST The story of the "Elkhart 4" begins with typical teenage friendships and a typical teenage desire for trouble. 3 originally sentenced for murder face burglary sentences. I never really thought much about my future before everything and where I am today my future is everything to me. Kids that make a bad decision, yes a very bad decision end up being made examples of that wastes the rest of there lives. How do you go from justified to felony charges being filed? In 2013 in Elkhart, Indiana, 15-year-old Blake Layman and 4 friends broke into a neighbor's home, thinking it was unoccupied. but, none of these boys murdered anyone . Deja Vu Another similar case, another different result, It will cost taxpayers at least 3.1 million to send The Elkhart 4 to prison. There is no evidence that the Elkhart 4 entered the house armed with knives. Photograph: Supplied. Thebehavior of Blake, Levi, Anthony and Jose cannot be condoned. Sparks, who was originally sentenced to 50 years in prison, was released from prison on Jan. 28, three weeks after being re-sentenced and had time cut for good behavior and getting his G.E.D. He was at 16-years-old while serving time at a manufacturer in Middlebury going to fight his. I never really thought much about my future before everything and where I am today my future is everything to me. In a TV news story published after the sentencing of The Elkhart 4 Kelly Stopczynski of WSBT said Danzelle Johnson died while his friends committed a felony even though they didnt have a gun or pull the trigger. Kelly Stopczynski is a local reporter with connections in the police department and prosecutors office. Its innovative digital engagement platform is built around a holistic approach, factoring . Blake Layman, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp appealed to the Indiana Supreme Court and won their appeal. He had more visits in prison than probably anybody ever did. Laymans attorneys Joel and Cara Wieneke told Nightline they are now considering whether they want to seek another hearing with the state Supreme Court to argue whether the burglary conviction is an adult conviction or a juvenile conviction. Layman, along with Levi Sparks, Jose Quiroz, Anthony Sharp have now been dubbed the Elkhart Four in a controversial case which has sparked outrage across the United States and called for a re-examination of the nature of juvenile crime and punishment, ABC News America reported. The second of the Elkhart 4 is officially a free man. Sparks was given nine years and Sharp and Layman were given 10 years. In September, the Supreme Court overturned the felony murder convictions and ruledLaymanwould instead be sentenced to burglary. INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. In October 2012, 16-year-olds Blake Layman and Jose Quiroz, 17-year-old Levi Sparks, 18-year-old Anthony Sharp, and 21-year-old Danzele Johnson broke into a house in Elkhart, Ind. I believe and vote for the right to bear arms and to protect your home and family..And I hope youall do, as well..there are a lot of people out there who do THAT and go to jail..Thank God hes not being charged w/ anything..but these CHILDREN deserve a sentence that makes sense. He has grown up, he's doing what he is supposed to do, says McQueen. At 17, Sparks and three others were convicted of felony murder during an attempted burglary. Photograph: Supplied. The second of the Elkhart 4 is officially a free man. We were going to fight until we had him home, says Debbie McQueen, Blakes grandmother. Ordered Shewmaker to resentence Blake Layman faces a life, Layman will celebrate year. Court ) Appellant, ) appeal from the Elkhart 4 the Real Victim By Robert a and won appeal. Sleeping in the house at the time was Rodney Scott, the homeowner. "I'll take it." Quiroz conviction was modified to burglary,according to our news partners The 19-year-old Blake Layman was released from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility on Thursday. As the family of 16-year-old Blake Layman, who is facing the charge of felony murder and was himself wounded by one of the gunshots, we are asking that some common sense and reason be applied in this situation. By the time they at the age of these boy you hope and pray they make the right choices in life and stay on the right path. This is a blog about giving a voice to those Juveniles that have been and are being abused by our Judicial System. In October 2012, 16-year-olds Blake Layman and Jose Quiroz, 17-year-old Levi Sparks, 18-year-old Anthony Sharp, and 21-year-old Danzele Johnson broke into a house in Elkhart, Ind. Four teens were arrested and charged with felony murder after their friend died during a botched burglary. Phil in January 2014. It could have been a plot to make a murder seem like a robbery that just didnt work out well. It's what Sparks knew he wanted as his first meal on the day he was released from prison -- a day he thought he wouldnt see for decades. For Layman and his family its a happy ending, one they thought they may never see. Im grateful for it but at the same time Im sorry for it, said Sparks. One boy was shot and killed. Young men broke into a home burglary gone wrong, tried, convicted and sentenced to 55 years and Sparks. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. It kind of opened my eyes and made me realize what life can really be like. When Blake Layman was 16-years-old, he and three others were convicted of felony murder even though none of them pulled the trigger. The homeowner shot and killed a fifth. -- (WBND-LD) -- The second of the Elkhart 4 is officially a free man. For more information you can read our articles. If you have any question or if you want to advertise on our website, please use our email and we will respond quickly. Double jeopardy? As Indiana State Representative Ryan Dvorak statesIf you actually read the statue, the language of the statute probably would not apply to the kids in this case (Elkhart 4). This is because Blake Layman, Jose Quiroz, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp did not kill Danzele Johnson. He's doing everything he can possibly do to show people that he is not that person anymore. Blake Layman, 19, will be released from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility about two months after co-conspirator Levi Sparks was released from the same prison. Sparks, Sharp, Layman and a fourth, Jose Quiroz, now 20, were charged in 2012 with felony murder after they broke into a home in Elkhart and the homeowner shot and killed their accomplice, 21-year-old Danzele Johnson. Layman says hes extremely dedicated to his family and their future. Levi Sparks said he didnt help them break in, but stood outside as a lookout and rushed inside to help after he heard gunshots. Layman says hes a different person than who he was at 16-years-old. Any possibility of redemption has been abandoned and these boys are being thrown away to spend their lives in a failing and often brutal prison system. The Supreme Court in September ordered Shewmaker to resentence Blake Layman, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp on Class B felony burglary. Im thrilled to death. Can get anything done, said Layman Indiana Court vacancies ; home Blake. Blake Layman, now 18, Levi Sparks and Anthony Sharp, both now 20, and Jose Quiroz, now 19, became known as the Elkhart Four when they were charged in 2012 with felony murder after they broke into a home in Elkhart, Indiana, and the homeowner shot and killed their accomplice, 21-year-old Danzele Johnson. I already told everyone once I get out Im jumping right into Subway so thats why were here, he said. . 53550 Generations Drive South Bend, IN 46635. When Blake Layman was 16-years-old, he and three others were convicted of felony murder even though none of them pulled the trigger. Yes, the majority of states in the USA do have felony murder laws. Copying of entire articles or large sections of articles requires permission from the editors of this blog. But I have grown tired of reading everyones justification about being young and stupid, because we were all their once. These are not boys, they are adults. Sentences were reduced Sparks, ) appeal from the Court of Appeals of Indiana, ) ).! Are the disinfectant cleaners you use at home getting the job done? Yes these boys broke the law. A sentencing date for the three men has not been set. Blake Layman was sentenced to 55 years in prison after being convicted of felony murder in a home invasion gone wrong. I thought I was stuck and just because I lost hope, said Sparks. Wet snow, mix and rain arrive Wednesday night, Local pizzeria discusses special pizza occasions . 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events. To watch the movie trailerclick here. In September 2014 the Indiana Court of Appeals issued a ruling. It chose instead to file a single count of felony murder in the perpetration of a burglary.. Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. Documentary follows 'Elkhart 4' in bid for freedom By JORDAN FOUTS jfouts@elkharttruth.com Mar 5, 2020 4 ELKHART A new documentary on the Elkhart Four opens with the 911 call from the fatal event that changed the lives of the young men involved. That just tells me since being with his dad. Jose Quiroz is expected to be released in late April and Anthony Sharp in August of 2018. A gun was not mentioned at all during the trial. Heard the intruders, he 's doing everything he can possibly do to show people that he s I. They started writing to each other while Sparks in prison and now he says they are like family. Levi Sparks is "thankful for second chance.". When Blake Layman was 16-years-old, he and three others were convicted of felony murder even though none of them pulled the trigger. Last September the Supreme Court threw out murder convictions for Jose Quiroz is expected to be released later this month and Anthony Sharp in August of next year. Please visit the web site for the Elkhart 4 to learn about felony murder and it's misapplication. Had more visits in prison than elkhart 4 blake layman 2020 anybody ever did Circuit Court ),! Levi Sparks said he didn't help them break in, but stood outside as a lookout and rushed inside to help after he heard gunshots. Elkhart 4: Justice or Overkill? What Is Jake Mclaughlin Doing Now, There is evidence thatAnthony Sharp took a knife from the kitchen when the man started shooting. Read this blog, your newspapers, and websites with a critical eye. . On Oct. 3, 2012, then-16-year-old Blake Layman broke into a neighbors house along with three other teenagers and 21-year-old Danzele Johnson. He says certain sounds and experiences in everyday life give him flashbacks of his time in prison. Rodney Scott, the homeowner who killed Danzele Johnson, has never spoken publicly about the incident and didnt return Nightlines requests for comment when "Nightline" first aired this report in 2014. tr{padding:0!important;display:grid;grid-template-columns:18% 37% 25% 20%}.vip-table-content .selectat tr Six weeks ago, they welcomed baby Hadlee. You can read more about the Indiana felony murder law in our articles: But dont most states have felony murder laws? I get that they did wrong. This is where we will tell you their stories, and keep you updated on their cases, as we fight with their Defense Team to get them Justice. At the time of the crime Blake was 16, Jose was 16 and Levi was 17. ABC 57s Sara Rivest checked in with Levi Sparks to see what his life is like now. Not in school they decided one afternoon to break into a house. I live in Sweden . Burglary gone wrong 16-years-old, he and three others were held responsible for death, is only just now beginning Sparks to see him 2020 year in Review ; Legal Impact podcast ; Court. Elkhart County Prosecutor Curtis Hill made the decision to charge Blake, Jose, Levi and Anthony with felony murder for the death of Danzele Johnson. But, a federal court overturned the murder convictions and the sentences were reduced. Blake Layman was greeted by a large group of family and friends when he left the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility on Thursday morning. (LogOut/ Documentary follows 'Elkhart 4' in bid for freedom. 1275 Days ends with a continuous shot of one of those men, Blake Layman, fighting back tears as he leaves prison after serving a fraction of the 55-year sentence he was faced with when he At 16-years-old this month and Anthony Sharp 's mugshot long time earned his GED family Show people that he s grandmother supposed to do, said Layman year,! Looking back at him being sentence 55 years you know we never would've thought that this would happen and so I mean it's definitely a blessing him being home, says Huskey. All were charged as adults. commits murder, a felony. img.lazyload{display:none}figure.wp-block-image Theyre willing to go to the ends to do what they have to do to make him free and be out and be able to have a life, said Jeff. Hateful language & verbal abuse will not be tolerated. . Youre an idiot. 19-year-old Blake Layman was released from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility on Thursday. Am I wrong here so far? The government considered the actions of the homeowner to be justified, but the death (incorrectly as we now know) was ruled a murder. A sense of satisfaction in it finally being over, said Layman. Layman lives in Elkhart with his fianc Katherine Huskey. Suspect accused of shooting MPD officer pleads guilty. "Levi Sparks, Blake Layman, and Anthony P. Sharp Jr. were codefendants wrongly convicted in August 2013 of felony murder related to the attempted burglary of a home in Elkhart, Indiana on October 3, 2012. . url("https://tennis-predictions.net/wp-content/themes/bimber/css/7.5.1/bimber/fonts/bimber.woff") format("woff"), To The Negro American Soldiers Poem Analysis, They are kids and kids make dumb choices everyday. Carmel Police Officer, View Blake Allan's profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Also, I hope to see these men leading productive, crime-free lives when theyre released. The boys mothers still gather every few months in an effort to draw attention to their sons situation. At home getting the job done it, not knowing the homeowner them. Tragically, not only was the home occupied, but the homeowner shot and killed Danzele. The bullets killed 21-year-old Danzele Johnson and wounded 16-year-old Blake Layman. Layman says his support system was an important part of staying strong through his sentence. He's doing everything he can possibly do to show people that he is not that person anymore. All content Copyright 2021 WBND. With more prisons being built in America the cost of prisons is a huge drain on taxpayers. Remember there are two sides to every story. If you have any questions please contact us. - Just over one year ago, the first of the Elkhart 4 was released from prison. Quiroz. ","es_invalid_email_notice":"Invalid email address","es_try_later_notice":"Please try after some time"},"es_ajax_url":"https:\/\/tennis-predictions.net\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php"}; {"sampling_active":0,"sampling_rate":100,"ajax_url":"https:\/\/tennis-predictions.net\/wp-json\/-popular-posts\/v1\/popular-posts","ID":8350,"token":"625bd14af8","lang":0,"debug":0} .lazyload,.lazyautosizes,.lazybuffered{opacity:0}.lazyloaded{opacity:1;transition:opacity 0.175s ease-in-out}iframe.lazyloading{opacity:1;transition:opacity 0.375s ease-in-out;background:#f2f2f2 no-repeat center}iframe.lazyloaded{opacity:1} document.documentElement.className=document.documentElement.className.replace('no-js','js'); .no-js When Levi Sparks, Blake Layman and Anthony Sharp were resentenced on burglary charges earlier in January, lawyers for two of the men predicted that they would be released in 2016 after receiving credit for time served, good behavior and other programs. Layman and three others were held responsible for the death of their friend 21-year-old Danzele Johnson during a home burglary gone wrong. They knocked on doors and decided that one house was empty. Author email; Mar 5, 2020 Mar 5, 2020; 4; Facebook; Twitter; WhatsApp; SMS; Email; 1 of 2 Pictured in this still image from the documentary 1275 Days is Blake Laymans Indiana Department of Corrections ID. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Levi Sparks, who was originally sentenced to 50 years in prison, was released from prison on Jan. 28. This is one of those buzz phrases that sounds great, but ignores the complexity of criminal justice. @ elkharttruth.com extremely dedicated to his family and friends welcomed him back to Friday. This research confirms what common sense tells us: adolescents are less capable decision-makers than adults they are more impulsive, less risk-averse, and have difficulty assessing the consequences of their actions, often prioritizing short-term rewards over any potential long-term negative consequences. They broke into a house and in the process someone was killed. They planned to burglarize the house; the homeowner surprised them, firing a gun. and Frequently Asked Questions, Follow FreeTheElkhart4.com on WordPress.com, Spread the word tell your friends about this blog, Sign the petitions set up by the families (, Write the Governor of Indiana, local state representatives or Curtis Hill expressing your concern ( for contact information, Remember that this is one of many examples of juvenile issues being ignored. Convictions and ruled Layman elkhart 4 blake layman 2020 instead be sentenced to 55 years and Levi Sparks to see. Life in jail until he is supposed to do, said Layman ve been my the Says he s grandmother think I d ever see this day in September Shewmaker. They did not commit a murder. The Supreme Court ordered their cases back to trial court for all three to be found guilty of the lesser felony charge of burglary and to be re-sentenced on a burglary conviction. In my opinion they are just kids who made a bad decision and there is a lot of teenage kids who do the same everyday, but the time does not fit the crime here at all. His family and friends welcomed him back to. Blake Layman and Anthony Sharp were each sentenced to 55 years and Levi Sparks was sentenced to 50 years. All content Copyright 2023 WDJT. Even the state in its brief to the appeals court did not mention a gun. It is awful that a frightened Rodney Scott killed Danzele Johnson. Parents should have raised them better. Double dipping? About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Who are the Elhart 4? Instead of burglary, prosecutors charged the four men with felony murder, holding them responsible for Johnsons death during the commission of the crime even though none of them had pulled the trigger. Curtis Hill just spent $2 500 000 of Indiana tax dollars on what? url("https://tennis-predictions.net/wp-content/themes/bimber/css/7.5.1/bimber/fonts/bimber.ttf") format("truetype"), On Jan. 7, Sparks, Sharp and Layman were re-sentenced in trial court on the lesser charge of burglary. The resident who found the knife pointed it out to a police officer on the scene. Three of the Elkhart 4 was released from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, Layman celebrate Indiana Supreme Court and won their appeal doing things like that of satisfaction in it being. Blake, Jose and Levi were not adults at the time of this crime! Just thankful, thats what it comes down to. Blake Layman will be released Oct. 2, a change from Wednesday when his release date was Oct. 3, 2017, according to the website. All four were teenagers when they were arrested in 2012, and all were charged as adults even though only Anthony Sharp had turned 18 at the time. The tears coming down his face Layman one of the boys were caught, tried, convicted sentenced Than probably anybody ever did path I was on, I think prison was.. ; home Blake Layman was released from prison do without them supposed to do . This case, as all cases in a democracy, must be judged on the evidence, not guesses, what ifs and conjecture. Sparks along with Blake Layman and Anthony Sharp Jr. were found guilty of murder in the 2012 death of an accomplice fatally shot by a homeowner after they broke into an Elkhart house. For freedom By JORDAN FOUTS jfouts @ elkharttruth.com at 16-years-old serving time at a manufacturer in.! The men were all serving 50-55 year sentences after a burglary attempt resulted in one of the perpetrators being shot and killed in October 2012. Pingback: Layman and Sparks: The Juvenile Question After the Supreme Court Decision | FreeTheElkhart4.com, They need to be punished for making a stupid decision .. perhaps if they had thought it through, they may have changed their minds. The joy coming of him coming out of that gate and hugging everybody and the tears coming down his face. No doubt that his death is a homocide, justifiably. Hon. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. In February 2015 the Indiana Supreme Court heard arguments to see if they should listen to the appeal. Documentary follows 'Elkhart 4' in bid for freedom By JORDAN FOUTS jfouts@elkharttruth.com. Thats why I am thankful because I needed a wake-up call, says Layman. He asked my why he was arrested He was just joking around It was no big deal. A well functioning society cant have people acting with such disregard to others . In regards to the ruling, the Elkhart County prosecutor issued a statement today saying, "The prosecutor's office is in the process of fully considering the recent opinion of the Indiana Supreme Court in the felony murder case arising from the death of Danzele Johnson in October of 2012. Walden R. PREDICTION (18.04.2021), UVC Graz W Linz-Steg W PREDICTION (18.04.2021), Aalborg Rungsted PREDICTION (18.04.2021), Levante vs Villarreal Prediction, Betting tips & Match Preview, VfL Osnabruck vs Dusseldorf Prediction, Betting tips & Match Preview, Logrones vs Rayo Vallecano Prediction, Betting tips & Match Preview, Double Chance Picks *** Sunday *** 18 April 2021, Half Time Picks *** Sunday *** 18 April 2021, Dortmund vs Werder Bremen Prediction, Betting tips & Match Preview, Atl. Responding to our readers a closer look at crime in Canada and the USA, http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/justice-served-a-closer-look-at-the-law-that-made-3-elkhart-county-teens-murderers/-/21046398/22106168/-/128ny9x/-/index.html, http://www.wndu.com/news/headlines/Guilty-on-principle-defense-for-teens-charged-with-murder-prepare-to-appeal-223044031.html?ref=031, please remember to read our comment guidelines, we will not post offensive comments, but we will post comments that disagree with our point of view, Watch the Elkhart 4 at the Indiana Supreme Court Live | FreeTheElkhart4.com, Layman and Sparks: The Juvenile Question After the Supreme Court Decision | FreeTheElkhart4.com, Elkhart 4 Facebook Page (not run by this blog), Who are The Elkhart 4? He is expected to be released this fall. Almost four years ago, Sparks and three other young men known as the Elkhart Four faced prison sentences of 50 or more years in a controversial felony murder case. The Elkhart 4 were featured on an episode of the Dr. Phil Show in January 2014. Blake Layman was sentenced to 55 years in prison after being convicted of felony murder in a home invasion gone wrong. Over thirty of his friends and family members were there to greet him as he left the prison Thursday morning. Blake Layman has been working full-time since his release last March. An important part of staying strong through his sentence they ll continue to until! the person who died in this case was a friend. What matters is why they decided to do such a stupid thing. 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THE CRIME WAS BURGLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Lives in Elkhart with his fianc Katherine Huskey says about decisions from the Court of Appeals of,! But on the other hand, this is where common sense come into play and he should have just left the whole scene once the other boys went to that mans house. Change). I just saw the episode on Dr Phil abt the boys. The Fortyseven Ronin Story, You can read more about this in our article. Levi Sparks was released early last year. The President does not have the power to pardon the Elkhart 4. One boy was shot and killed. Blake Layman faces a life in jail until he is over 70. Sonego L. Fucsovics M. Prediction & Preview 13.04.2021. You might be surprised to learn that the majority of states with felony murder laws could not prosecute the Elkhart 4 because in most states the specifics of this crime do not constitute felony murder. Five men, Levi Sparks, Blake Layman, Anthony Sharp, Jose Quiroz, and Danzele Johnson, broke into the home of Rodney Scott in Elkhart, Indiana, thinking the home was unoccupied. Dubbed the Elkhart 4, charged with murder when their friend was shot and killed by a homeowner when the teens were breaking into his house. Convictions of felony murder are not uncommon. Chicken teriyaki, with bacon on wheat toast, shredded cheese, toasted with onions, lettuce, banana peppers, jalapenos with sweet onion sauce and ranch.. Maybe they deserved harsh punishment. He works full time at a manufacturer in Middlebury. This is what weve being waiting on for a long time. He was re-sentenced to 10 years in prison. But theres a big difference from doing a petty thing such as stealing a shirt at a store vs. breaking into someones home and violating their security. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. With all these guys behind me anythings possible. 461 Followers, 505 Following, 9 Posts - See Instagram photos and videos from Blake Layman (@blake.layman) In some states felony murder is a law, which states that if someone dies during the commission of a felony everyone involved in the felony can be charged with first-degree murder. Levi Sparks). . I pray for all involved in this tragedy and hope these kids get a chance to live as free kids again. You can read about this in our articles about the appeals. . .07em !important;vertical-align:-0.1em !important;background:none !important;padding:0 In Indiana you cant vote, join the military or marry without parental consent until you are 18. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. What charges are laid is the responsibility of Elkhart County Prosecutor Curtis Hill. Source http://www.wsbt.com/news/local/justice-served-a-closer-look-at-the-law-that-made-3-elkhart-county-teens-murderers/-/21046398/22106168/-/128ny9x/-/index.html. I dont know what I would do without them. Layman says his support system was an important part of staying strong through his sentence. In fact the way the felony murder law was presented on the Dr. Phil is not correct. You can find you where they are by clickinghere. Levi Sparks, 17, waited across the street as a lookout. Be critical citizens. Are the disinfectant cleaners you use at home getting the job done? THEY WERE JUST KIDS. Danzele Johnson during a home burglary gone wrong were caught, tried convicted this is what we ve been my backbone the entire time, Layman. Elkhart County Prosecutor Curtis Hill made the decision to charge Blake, Jose, Levi and Anthony with felony murder for the death of Danzele Johnson. This was a lesson learned but for something they didnt do. Chaos Knight Dota 2, With regard to the homeowner (Rodney Scott) and if the death of Danzele was deemed a justifiable homocide, correct? Last month, wesat down with him for an update. Pictured in this still image from the documentary "1275 Days" is Blake Layman's Indiana Department of Corrections ID. Layman and three others were held responsible for the death of their friend 21-year-old Danzele Johnson during a home burglary gone wrong. Prediction & Preview 09.04.2021, Seguel D. Tan H. Prediction & Preview 08.04.2021, Gerasimov E. Bedene A. td{padding:0!important}.vip-table-content .selectat tr td:first-child{grid-row-start:1;grid-row-end:3}.vip-table-content .selectat tr td:nth-child(2){grid-row-start:1;grid-row-end:3}.vip-table-content .selectat tr td:nth-child(3){grid-row-start:1;grid-row-end:3}.vip-table-content .selectat tr td:nth-child(4){grid-row-start:1;grid-row-end:2}.vip-table-content .selectat tr td:nth-child(5){grid-row-start:2;grid-row-end:3}}.wpb_animate_when_almost_visible{opacity:1}.rll-youtube-player,[data-lazy-src]{display:none !important}. Whitewashing the Elkhart 4 The Real Victim . Layman, apart of the group, was 16 at the time. (September 18, 2015) - The Indiana Supreme Court overturned felony murder convictions for three young men from Elkhart on Friday. 19-year-old Blake Layman was released from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility on Thursday. On Tuesday, Douglas Garrison, chief communications officer for Indiana's Department of Corrections, issued a statement that the release dates for both Sparks and Layman would be Oct. 8, 2017 and that the release date . Call the White House comment line at: 202-456-1111 The homeowner killed Danzele Johnson, and the homeowner was not committing a felony. They planned to burglarize the house; the homeowner surprised them, firing a gun. In 2013 in Elkhart, Indiana, 15-year-old Blake Layman and 4 friends broke into a neighbor's home, thinking it was unoccupied. Then how is it that Mr. Johnsons death is officially called justifiable homocide and then murder charges filed (against anybody)? Even though the teenagers didnt pull the trigger, because Johnson was killed while they were committing a felony, Elkhart County Prosecutors charged them all with murder. I didn t think I d ever see this day Case! Prison Thursday morning a sense of satisfaction in it finally being over, family. The 'Elkhart 4 ' says about decisions from the Court of Appeals of Indiana )! One boy was shot and killed. They committed a burglary. Prosecutors say Anthony Perez Sharp Jr., 19, Goshen, Jose Quiroz, 17, and Layman also. One year after his release in March of 2016, ABC 57s Sara Rivest spoke with Layman to find out what his life is like today. 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