On August 28, 2024, a Wayne County jury found Lanis Brown guilty of voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The charges stem from the shooting death of Zakkary Johnson in Jesup, Georgia. Following the conviction, Superior Court Judge Anthony L. Harrison sentenced Brown to fifteen years in prison followed by ten years on probation.
The trial revealed that on February 3, 2023, Brown was under the influence of methamphetamine when he went to a shed on Community Circle in Jesup. There, he consumed more methamphetamine with three others. An argument and subsequent physical altercation occurred between Brown and Johnson upon Johnson's arrival. After separating from the fight, Brown shot Johnson in the chest with a handgun, resulting in his death. Brown fled but was arrested four days later. During an interview with law enforcement, Brown admitted to the shooting but claimed self-defense. The jury reached their verdicts after three hours of deliberation.
Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Presley and Assistant District Attorney A.J. Smart prosecuted the case, with Investigator Bruce Williams from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office leading the investigation.
For further inquiries, media members can contact the Brunswick Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office at 912-554-7200.