Rodney Jacob Sanders, 26, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The sentence follows his conviction on multiple charges related to a fatal home invasion in Acworth, Georgia. The announcement was made by Cobb County District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr.
The charges against Sanders include one count of voluntary manslaughter, five counts of felony murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and various other charges connected to the incident. The crime took place on May 16, 2023, when Sanders and three accomplices—Cibias Vieira, Jaiden Crawford, and David Travis—attempted a break-in at a residence while the homeowner was away.
After the initial burglary attempt, Sanders returned under the guise of helping with repairs but used this opportunity to inform his accomplices about the situation inside the house. Hours later, Vieira, Crawford, and Travis returned while the victim was home with his girlfriend. During their attempted entry, shots were fired through the door by two defendants, resulting in the victim's death.
In court proceedings, all three accomplices testified against Sanders. Their testimonies indicated that Sanders had orchestrated the events leading to the fatal shooting. As a result of their involvement in the crime, Vieira received a sentence of 35 years with 25 years to serve; Travis received an identical sentence; Crawford was sentenced to 20 years with 15 years to serve.
Superior Court Judge Angela Z. Brown delivered Sanders' life sentence without parole. "This life sentence ensures Sanders is held fully accountable for his actions and serves as a reminder that such crimes will not be tolerated in Cobb County," stated District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr.
Assistant District Attorneys Jason D. Treadaway and Karyn Boothe prosecuted on behalf of the state. Defense representation for Sanders was provided by attorney Kevin J. Rodgers.