District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr. announced that Marcus Bass, 61, and Peterson Paris, 33, have been found guilty of murder by two different juries in Cobb County. Bass was sentenced to life without parole plus five years for various charges, while Paris's sentencing for felony murder, criminal attempt to commit armed robbery, and aggravated assault will be determined at a later date.
The convictions stem from the murder of store owner Abu Ahammed at the Kwik E Mart in Acworth. Surveillance footage and cell phone records linked Paris and Bass to the crime scene. Bass was identified as the gunman who fatally shot Ahammed, while Paris was seen assisting him in the planning and execution of the robbery.
District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr. expressed satisfaction with the verdicts, stating, "The conviction of these individuals sends a resounding message: crime will not go unpunished in our community. The diligent work of law enforcement and the support of the community have ensured that those responsible for this senseless act will face the consequences of their actions."
The trials were prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Green, Jared Horowitz, and Paul Camarillo, with legal representation provided by Charles Engleberger and Herman Maddox Kilgore for Bass and Paris, respectively.
The Cobb County community remains committed to upholding justice and holding accountable those who perpetrate violent crimes. The sentencing of Marcus Bass and the upcoming sentencing of Peterson Paris serve as justice being served for the tragic loss of Abu Ahammed.