A teenager from Mississippi who admitted to fatally shooting his mother’s boyfriend has been sentenced to 35 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
Le’Andrew Williams, 19, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in connection to the death of Jimmie Lee Pierce Jr., 49, a tragic incident that occurred in May 2022.
Williams was 15 years old when he and two relatives devised a plan to confront and rob Pierce. Court documents reveal that the teenager had grown furious after discovering explicit messages between Pierce and his mother. Fueled by anger, he enlisted his cousin, Corey Hodge, 22, and his uncle, Bonny Fields, 27, to help carry out the act.
On May 16, 2022, the three approached Pierce outside his apartment complex in Jackson. According to a witness at the scene, Williams and Hodge demanded Pierce’s wallet. Pierce reportedly responded, “We don’t have anything.” In a fit of rage, Williams shot Pierce twice in the chest. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Days after the tragic shooting, Williams, Hodge, and Fields turned themselves in to police. Williams and Hodge were charged with capital murder, while Fields was accused as an accessory after the fact.
In court, prosecutors emphasized the crime’s premeditation, revealing that Williams had planned to rob Pierce at his house before resorting to violence. The District Attorney’s office underscored the gravity of the offense and the consequences for the victim’s family.
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Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens announced the sentencing on social media, calling it a step toward justice. “This tragic case underscores the devastating consequences of violence in our community,” Owens told reporters.
Williams’ punishment includes a rigorous 35-year prison term, ensuring that he will spend the remainder of his life behind bars. Additionally, the five years of post-release supervision are intended to monitor and guide him following his incarceration.
The story serves as a grim reminder of how anger and poor decision-making can have catastrophic repercussions. Jimmie Lee Pierce Jr., the victim, is remembered by his family as a kind-hearted person whose life was cut short far too soon.
The Jackson community continues to deal with the aftermath of this tragedy, hoping for healing and a renewed focus on preventing similar tragedies in the future.
