Beer binge preceded shooting

Thu, 03/15/2007 - 4:52pm
By: John Munford

Sharpsburg teen pleads guilty to ‘accidental’ shooting of close friend

A Sharpsburg teen was sentenced yesterday to eight years in prison for firing a gun that killed one of his close friends at an unsupervised teen party in Peachtree City fueled by drugs and alcohol.

Kevin Johnston, now 18, said he was “extremely sorry” for killing Dallas Crenshaw and said it was an accident.

“If I could go back and trade my life for his, I would,” Crenshaw said. “All I can do now is live my life to the fullest for both of us.”

Johnston said he was devastated when police told him he would be charged with murder, which is how he learned of his friend’s death hours after the incident took place.

Peachtree City Police Capt. Michael Claman testified that a witness had seen Johnston “waving” the gun around moments before the shot was fired from the weapon. That witness had his back to the pair when the shot rang out, Claman said.

Johnston testified that he had consumed between 15 and 20 beers that evening and also smoked some marijuana. Johnston also said he was too drunk to drive so Dallas drove to the party, hosted by Chris Canderozzi at his family's home in the Centennial subdivision.

Claman testified that Johnston initially told police that he was downstairs when the shot was fired in an upstairs room.

Johnston said he lied at first because he was scared, and he pointed out that Crenshaw also lied to police because he didn’t want Johnston to get in trouble. Johnston also admitted to trying to hide the weapon.

Police said Johnston’s phone was used to make the first 911 call and Johnston said he applied pressure to Crenshaw’s wound before paramedics arrived.

Johnston said he and Dallas were at the Crenshaw home before going to the party, and it was Dallas’s idea for Johnston to take the gun back to his house after the party; previously the gun had been kept at Crenshaw’s house, he said.

Johnston testified that he had bought the gun from “an individual in Peachtree City” but he did not say from who. Johnston’s brother testified that Johnston bought the gun to protect himself from a person who previously attempted to rob him.

When one witness referred to the shooting as an accident, Judge English quickly corrected the record, noting that Johnston was charged with a crime, not an accident.

Before issuing the sentence, English said that one detail stuck with him in determing Johnston’s character: the testimony from Dallas’s father about how Johnston cursed him out during a confrontation at the Crenshaw home.

As Johnston drove away from the home, Dallas Crenshaw Sr. noted that his son spoke to Johnston through the window of Johnston’s car.

“He said, ‘You can’t talk to my dad that way,’” the father recalled.

Crenshaw’s mother Anna also testified during the hearing. She said that while her son had typical “teenage” problems, he had a bright future.

Anna Crenshaw said her son planned to join the Navy as a nuclear engineer, and he had delayed entering the military after his mother asked him to try college.

Crenshaw also referenced a letter of apology that Johnston sent to the Crenshaw family. She said he referred to how he was sorry he couldn’t go into the details of what happened that night.

“Well, he can but he hasn’t,” Anna Crenshaw said. “It hurts not knowing. That hurts me more than anything.”

Johnston openly wept during Anna Crenshaw’s testimony and briefly when he testified.

Acquaintances of Johnston and Dallas Crenshaw said the two were always hanging out with each other, often spending the night at each other’s homes and at friends’ homes. The two were so close that Dallas attended the ultrasound procedure when Johnston found out his girlfriend was going to have a baby boy. The baby, Issac, was two and a half months old when the shooting took place, Johnston said.

Johnston’s parents also testified during the hearing and apologized and expressed sympathy to the Crenshaw family. Marilyn Johnston, Kevin Johnston’s mother, also lashed out at the Crenshaws for filing the civil lawsuit seeking to hold her son accountable in a wrongful death claim.

Marilyn Johnston also said she was grateful to Anna Crenshaw for lining up a job interview for her son along with Dallas at UPS; she also fondly recalled how the Crenshaw family came to visit her grandson after he was born, bringing gifts.

But Marilyn Johnston also alleged that Dallas was just as much to blame for the shooting as her son was.

“Both of them had joint ownership of that gun,” she said.

The party host, Chris Canderozzi, previously pled guilty to misdemeanor charges stemming from the incident and was sentenced to a fine and probation.

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Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 5:23pm.

Well, the tawdry saga of Kevin Johnston and Dallas Crenshaw Jr reached a conclusion in court this past week. Bottom line: Nobody's happy but justice was served.

Johnston's friends and supporters are dismayed that Johnston was sentenced to 8 years in prison (eligible for parole around 7 years). I'm sure that seems like a long time to a 17-19 year old. Likewise, I suspect it appears to be intolerably short to a 40 or 50-something parent.

Reporter John Munsford doesn't do the casual reader much of a favor with his article. Only those who have been diligently following the case know that the initial charge of murder (which was breathlessly trumpeted by PTC's headline seeking chief of police Murray) was subsequently reduced to involuntary manslaughter with virtually no fanfare. Of the entire spectrum of crimes in which a death occurs, involuntary manslaughter carries the lightest sentencing. Munford also failed to mention the plea bargain that dropped the other "pile on" charges.

Judge English had the option of sentencing Johnston to a term of one to ten years. He opted for eight and I really cannot quarrel with that (feel free to disagree...but if you don't like the legal sentencing guidelines in Georgia feel free to complain to your local state rep!)

Far too much was made, again in my opinion, of this business of Johnston cursing at Crenshaw's father. From my standpoint, Crenshaw Jr. was an adult (18 years old) and the time for Crenshaw Sr. to have any say-so in picking his son's friends was long past.

I'm not surprised that Johnston cursed out Crenshaw Sr. Both Johnston and Crenshaw Jr. were "gangsta"-wannabees. Disrespect of adult authority is par for the course in that lifestyle, just as it was for greasers in the 50s through the punks of the 80s. La plus ca change The big difference in the gangsta culture is the fascination with guns,and that sadly brought about Crenshaw Jr's demise.

I thought it was a tad disingenious for Mrs. Crenshaw to complain about not getting the whole story from Johnston when she and her husband are suing Johnston for monetary damages. Golly, I'm suing you, why won't you talk to meee?

Finally, I was very surprised to read that Crenshaw Jr was an aspiring Nuclear Engineer. I recall his Myspace page (which has since disappeared) listed a number of interests along the lines of rap music and indoor pot growing, but I guess he never got around to updating it to reflect his interest in Nuclear Engineering.


Submitted by skyspy on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:24pm.

Because he was binge drinking......I suppose harold and the gang will use that excuse when the TDK thing is over and we are over-run with big box adult book stores and pawn shops........

Sorry tax payers and birds and trees, but I was binge drinking, I couldn't help it......you understand....wink, wink.

tortugaocho's picture
Submitted by tortugaocho on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:58pm.

18 months, guaranteed, and he will be out of prison. Maybe less. Who was the kids lawyer.

BigGun is right--- we have lost the "tough on crime" reputation in Fayette.


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 8:03pm.

The law says if you are convicted of involuntary manslaughter you have to serve 90% of your sentence (7 years, 1 month in Johnston's case) before being considered for parole.

Of course, certain mouthbreathers may consider this an UNINFORMED OPINION because they disagree with our quote gay and liberal unquote courts.


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 10:00pm.

You are beginning to be a bore.

As stated in a previous blog which you obviously did not read but decided to join in and have a sophomoric debate. I stated that five of the original charges were dropped by the DA. One of those charges was a felony. When or if you do decide to look up the law, query for "possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony resulting in the loss of life."

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 10:48pm.

When you sober up, you might want to research the difference between "State courts" and "Federal courts".

Johnston was charged with violations of the Georgia state code, in state (superior) court, convicted in state (superior) court, and sentenced by a state (superior) court judge to a state prison.

Federal courts and statutes simply don't apply here.

Tell me again, who is the one with "UNINFORMED OPINIONS"?


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:38pm.

Go to Georgia Department of Corrections website and look up all of the inmates convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter. I found several that are serving a 10 year sentence and some that are actually serving 20 year sentences. Guess the Crenshaw family is going through the Fayette County version of justice.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:41pm.

Voluntary manslaughter: 1 to 20 years
Involuntary manslaughter: 1 to 10 years

Smiling


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:47pm.

not a trick but a hint STOMP..STOMP..STOMP.."CURRENT"

Look it up on the GDC website. You may learn something!

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:50pm.

If not the CURRENT Involuntary Manslaughter statute, in your INFORMED OPINION, should Mr. Johnston have been convicted under? And why?

Why do I feel you are grasping at straws here?


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:56pm.

but you obviously lack the intellect to have an intelligent conversation.

The point is that the laws have changed because of our gay and liberal justice system which reduced the sentence for Involuntary Manslaughter.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Enigma's picture
Submitted by Enigma on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 10:26am.

Welcome to the citizen blog. I see you have 'met' Basmati. Basmati is actually a variety of cultivated long-grain rice that is notably fragrant (Dictionary.com). The fragrance (in this case) is usually quite unpleasant and echoes that of raw sewage at times so be forewarned.

Rumor has it that basmati is an extremely short, very fat, balding little Hindu/American who spent 12 mos. in the Army (against his will) many years ago and has the "DD214 available on request". This would explain his Napoleon complex and anger but again, it’s only rumor.

Regardless, don't allow him to run you off like he has so many others who were sick of his personal attacks (mouth breathing, knuckle dragging, inbred, yada yada yada) on those who would take an intelligent point of view rather than parrot his liberal talking points.

Some of us prescribe to the theory that Basmati is actually a Republican operative who makes so many rational Democrats disgusted with the liberals that they actually change and vote Republican.

Regardless, JCarter will debate your views with class and Army Major will support you. You can expect for AFA10 to try and 'frag' you and basmati is just plain nasty and, apparently, jobless.

If you can chat with Tug13 she may be the nicest person on here. The other 'regulars' are usually no 'nasty' and 'personal'. Once a local sports reporter attacked a guy named 'spidyman' and Myword_mark defended spidyman and attacked the sportswriter. Other than that, I have not seen a local writer banter with the bloggers.

Again, welcome to the blog - most of us stay in the background and only blog occasionally. Regardless, we will watch, read, and enjoy the tête-à-tête.


Tug13's picture
Submitted by Tug13 on Tue, 03/20/2007 - 8:43am.

Hey my blogger friend! Welcome back! Now, if we can get myword_mark back too, the blogs might get better! Smiling

Wonder where Proud2Bwildcat and ptcgov are.

I get tired of the same two mean, nasty people on here all the time too. I've decided to completely ignore Bas. Something is wrong with that man.

Anyway, I'm happy that you are back!! Smiling


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 6:02pm.

I began to yawn uncontrollably and had to walk away from the PC.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Enigma's picture
Submitted by Enigma on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 7:15pm.

You will find that basmati and another classless dolt, dollaradayandfound, have very high opinions of themselves.

Neither will stay on topic in a debate, neither have an original thought and both hate to be ignored (that's why it's so much fun to do so).

Hi cowboy daily wages and smelly rice boy! Eye-wink (That’s all you get from me today girls.)

Enjoy my new friend - and again- WELCOME from a former AF Combat Controller - Primos eos grunt!


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 11:04am.

Enigma, you and Armyaviator should get along just fine. You both seem to share a deep personal animosity for any viewpoint that differs from your own, a fundamental inability to distinguish between fact and opinion and a tendency to make personal attacks.

For those who may be new here, enigma is one of the race-baiters on this site who feel that the privately owned Black Entertainment TV is "racist" for not airing any programming for white folks, and Spanish language radio "discriminates" against white folks for not airing anything in English. He got {{{EDITED}}} when I pointed out his situational outrage and now comes after me with personal attacks every chance he gets. Google "Mount Olive Float" if you don't believe me.


Git Real's picture
Submitted by Git Real on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 1:39pm.

You both seem to share a deep personal animosity for any viewpoint that differs from your own, a fundamental inability to distinguish between fact and opinion and a tendency to make personal attacks.

Do you get the feeling our old buddy Bas may have been looking in the mirror when he wrote this one? That was actually perty funny to read.

Just think. On one side we can have Anne Coulter and on the other we can have Basmati. Talk about making the Citizen "Fair and Balanced". The only differences being that one sits on the Right and one sits on the Left. Oh... and people actually pay to reads Anne's opinions.

But, I support Basmati's right to expose himself publicly. If this guy is for real I'd like to run into him sometime. I've never quite met anyone as hateful as this dude. It makes me wonder if his disposition if the result of taking too many lumps on the head during his riot participations at G-7 Conferences.

I do have to ask though.... Is it just me or does Bas resemble the type of individual that Islamo Fascist suicide bombers are made of?


AF A-10's picture
Submitted by AF A-10 on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 2:49pm.

They are both men.

How dare someone challenge the liberal justice claim in a republican town with republican judges and republican leadership. The nerve of that Basmati. Can't we just let the gay and liberal left wing inuendos and epithets fly unchecked? Golly gee wiz!

But seriously, Git, you are my favorite conservative round these parts. You speak better ebonics than I does. Hug the kids, and cheers,

Kevin "Hack" King


Git Real's picture
Submitted by Git Real on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 3:11pm.

The Citizen Online hosts both Git Real and AF A-10 AKA KHK. Smiling

Kevin... In regards to your complimenting my ebonics skills might I just say this: It comes rather easy. You see..there is very little difference between ebonics and hillbilly. It's amazing how much you and I really do have in common. Smiling Smiling


hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:28pm.

what makes our justice system gay?

I yam what I yam...Popeye


Submitted by dollaradayandfound on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:35pm.

I know what he meant. He thinks the courts are too liberal with gays.

hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:45pm.

I don't see what that has to do with the subject at hand, he must be one of those people who are really worried about the gays.

I yam what I yam...Popeye


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:30pm.

I engage only when engaged.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:34pm.

just a legitimate question, I didn't want to marry you.

I yam what I yam...Popeye


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:47pm.

Turn on the TV and seriously observe. I have never seen so much homosexuality in my life. I am out daily and do not see that much homosexuality. If it has gotten to the point that the networks have lowered the standard that being gay is OK, who do you think is influenceing our criminal justice system?

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 1:57pm.

that's quite a stretch if you ask me. When you say you're out daily do you mean the closet or outside?

I yam what I yam...Popeye


hutch866's picture
Submitted by hutch866 on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:53pm.

what uniform was that?

I yam what I yam...Popeye


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:08pm.

You just continue to lash out indiscriminately in random directions.

I hope you exercise better fire discipline on the battlefield....you're a "friendly fire" incident waiting to happen.


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:44pm.

I am sorry that I illuded that he actually KILLED somebody. If you feel so strongly that Mr. Johnstons' sentence is a miscarriage of justice based on the facts maybe you should start a pettition and send it to the governor for a pardon.

AHHHH!!!!you are boreing me now and I have better things to do right not than continue a dialogue with a derelict over-indulged and under-disciplined whining wanna be adult child.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:16pm.

resulting in a death but I have not.

Next....

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:16pm.

met Dallas or his family? Have you ever met the Johnston family? Please elaborate on your stance? I was not able to get past the diatribe.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:39pm.

Never met either family.

You obviously are a family friend of the Crenshaws, and feel compelled to disparage any viewpoint that doesn't coincide with your own.

*shrugs*


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:43pm.

Just as much as you feel compelled to express your views. As long as you continue to post your UNINFORMED OPINIONS, I will be here too. I love America!

Wanna dance?

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:48pm.

UNINFORMED OPINIONS = "people that won't agree with me".


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:49pm.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:19pm.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Submitted by thebiggun on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 5:58pm.

So you have been following the case diligently have you ? Must mean your kids were part of the party or have been part of a party like that before. Bash the police for the murder charge, well you need to go back and read the articles you said you have read and you will see that the DA's office advised the police to bring the charge of murder. Police do not reduce charges in court, the DA's office does so they don't have to try them and get a bunch of bed wetting folks on the jury who will give junior another chance and not hold him accountable for his crimes. As for the Police Chief being in the paper and on TV to discuss the murder, I think that just might be part of his job. Murder in PTC with 2 kids and a gun, sounds like a headline on every news station to me. I am guessing his department has arrested your smart kids before or even maybe you. Now making fun of someone dead and their plans for the future, I would suggest you check behind your kids because with a dad and role model like you, I bet their web page is something to see.

You need to give it a rest with your mouth and words. The smart people on here can see you checked your brain at the door a long time ago. You are the kind of a guy that all people in Peachtree City have to tell their friends that all people in Peachtree City are not all JERKS like you. Hope the Crenshaw family can do the same to your family one day as you have done for them with your blog. OK tough guy sign your real name the next time so all can see why you hide behind rice paper.

Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:14pm.

*yawn*


Xaymaca's picture
Submitted by Xaymaca on Sat, 03/17/2007 - 3:09pm.

Any word on what happened to the seller of the weapon?


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sat, 03/17/2007 - 3:38pm.

He was named in that other Peachtree City newspaper.


RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:52pm.

Oops, my mistake. You probably will have to google it. Didn't mean to catch you off guard

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Basmati's picture
Submitted by Basmati on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 6:56pm.

RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:00pm.

Take a valium, go to sleep and when you wake up you may feel better.

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Submitted by x0x0x0x0 on Sat, 03/17/2007 - 2:26pm.

I would like to start off by saying rest in peace Dallas, we all miss you and love you. Being a friend of both Dallas Crenshaw and Kevin Johnston I was able to witness their wonderful relationship together. They had been best friends since middle school and were very loyal to each other even when BOTH families told them they couldn't be friends they remained friends. When they were not together they were on the phone with each other, always knowing what the other was doing. Being friends with Kevin, talking to him on the phone weekly since this happened and being close with his family has let be know a lot more then what some of you who have just read the paper and want to put your 2 cents in know. Being at the trial I saw that Marilyn Johnston in no way lashed out at the Crenshaws, she is a wonderful person AND MOTHER and deserves some respect. She tries her hardest to raise her children just like everyone else. As for Kevin, he is a good, respectful boy who would never intentionally cause anyone pain. The fact of the matter is Dallas and Kevin bought the gun TOGETHER, drank TOGETHER at Dallas' house, were going to go to Kevin's house until Dallas suggested that they go to the party and said to bring the gun. They could have just as easily died as Dallas was driving drunk to the party, and this whole situation could have been the other way around if Dallas was holding the gun at that moment. And yes, Kevin lied to the police when they first came but what 17 year old kid wouldn't have. At least he stayed there, called the police and tried to save his best friend unlike everyone else who just ran away! But, I am not saying he shouldn't get punished, what he did was wrong and he knows it. He has to live with the fact that he killed his best friend, but 8 years in jail for an accident...?

RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sat, 03/17/2007 - 4:23pm.

1. They had been best friends since middle school and were very loyal to each other even when BOTH families told them they couldn't be friends they remained friends.

Wow, that one went right by me. I too was at trial and don’t recall that both families disagreed with their friendship. I do remember Dallas’ dad testifying that Kevin “cursed him out while he was standing in his driveway for telling Kevin to leave and that he was not good for his son and no longer welcome at his home and not to come back.”

2. Being at the trial I saw that Marilyn Johnston in no way lashed out at the Crenshaws, she is a wonderful person AND MOTHER and deserves some respect.

Again, I too was at the trial and I, as well as the reporters in attendance got the impression that she did lash out at the Crenshaw family.

3. As for Kevin, he is a good, respectful boy who would never intentionally cause anyone pain.

As for respectful and good, I will remind you of the comments from Judge English prior to sentencing Kevin. “One thing that rang clear to me is one of the testimonies given earlier as to the character of the defendant at the time this happened. I cant believe that you had the audacity to profane the adult father of your friend.” Not an exact quote but pretty close.

4. The fact of the matter is Dallas and Kevin bought the gun TOGETHER, drank TOGETHER at Dallas' house, were going to go to Kevin's house until Dallas suggested that they go to the party and said to bring the gun.

Lets see……were you there with them and did you take part in the conversation to take the gun? Didn’t think so! If I were in the hot seat for KILLING (hint. NOT FOR AN ACCIDENT) someone I bet most people would have to try really hard not cast doubt on the DECEASED (oh yea, he is dead and cant defend himself) to get my butt the lowest possible sentence too!

5. They could have just as easily died as Dallas was driving drunk to the party, and this whole situation could have been the other way around if Dallas was holding the gun at that moment.

But that’s not what happened so what are you talking about. Kevin didn’t have to throw back 15 to 20 beers but he did. Had Kevin not thrown back 15 to 20 beers it may not have happened at all. Had Kevin not come to the Crenshaw home after being told to stay away, this more than likely would not have happened either. What in the world are you talking about?

6. And yes, Kevin lied to the police when they first came but what 17 year old kid wouldn't have. At least he stayed there, called the police and tried to save his best friend unlike everyone else who just ran away!

Finally some truth here but It was OK for him to lie to the police because he was only 17 years old right? NOT!! A young man was sitting there dying and he was maintaining a lie. Oh, about everyone leaving. The Crenshaw’s did not know anything happened to their son until apx 8 am but Marilyn Johnston said in court that she was at the scene shortly after her son called and told her what happened, shortly after 3 am. NOBODY notified the Crenshaw family until shortly prior to 8 am and their son passed just before noon. THAT’S OK THOUGH, RIGHT??!!!

7. But, I am not saying he shouldn't get punished, what he did was wrong and he knows it. He has to live with the fact that he killed his best friend, but 8 years in jail for an accident...?

He also knew what he was doing was wrong, but that’s ok because he now is ready to grow up. Someone died because of his recklessness but now he knows his actions were wrong so lets all gather around the campfire, hold hands and sing coombyah because he now knows it was wrong. AGAIN, he was not in arrested for an accident, he was arrested for committing a CRIME. He was not denied bond for an accident but for a CRIME. He did not get sentenced to 8 years for and accident but for a CRIME. Get the picture, its pretty consistent so you should be able to follow along. NO! I dont think 8 years is enough and sure Crenshaw family feel the same as I do.


Submitted by x0x0x0x0 on Sat, 03/17/2007 - 9:54pm.

Wow, you are an idiot , you may have been at the trial but you have no idea what actually happened.

RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 7:23am.

one thing that I know is that one family has lost a member of their family at the hand of Kevin Johnston and will suffer from that loss for the rest of their lives. Their only son and brother!

I also know that you have tried to make excuses for the individual that took the life of Dallas Crenshaw. Kevin's parents can still visit him. Dallas' family can only share memories and visit him at the cemetery.

I was hoping that if you did respond you would not be so sophomoric and bitter. I guess I was wrong on that one too. Apparently you must feel that you are out-gunned and must resort to childish epithets which lack any substantitive value such as "You're and idiot."

Apparently, your mental state is commensurate with that of the two individuals who were asked to leave the courtroom thursday.

Trust me, you do not have to respond unless you have something remotely intelligible to add. Take a nap and maybe you will feel better when you wake up.

You may want to seek professional counselling in the VERY near future as you obviously have a warped sense of reality.


Submitted by x0x0x0x0 on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 12:12pm.

I wouldn't feel as bad if the judge took in to consideration what everyone else said, not just the lie that Mr. Crenshaw told. The two individuals were asked to leave the court because their shirts were not tucked in what are you talking about. And please do not try to judge me because you do not know me.

RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Sun, 03/18/2007 - 2:04pm.

the lie that Mr. Crenshaw told during his testimony? Are you referring to Mr. Crenshaw's testimony in which he stated;

O He told Kevin to stay away from his son

O He told Kevin he was no longer welcome at his home

O He told Kevin to leave and not come back

O All he heard were obscenities being shouted from Kevins' car

O He told his son that Kevin was dangerous

O He said that the reason we are here today is because that young man is dangerous

O His son was dealt a DEATH sentence

O His entire family has been dealt a LIFE sentence at the hand of Kevin Johnston

O None of the above

O All of the above

Its multiple choice. Just pick one but ONLY one and darken in the circle. please try to stay within the lines and only use a #2 pencil.

If this is too difficult, please seek professional help, your care provider may administer an ink blot test screening as well as a multiple choice questionnaire similar to this one. This should serve as a practical exercise for the multiple choice questionnaire.

I didn't count how many people testified for Kevin but I think that it was upwards of 10 to 15 counting the 2 that were told to leave. One of which looked like gang member who non-chalantly slothed up to the bench and with complete disregard for the court of law that he was in. Maybe because it was routine for him due to his frequent flyer membership in the judicial system.

The only credible testimonies for the defense were those of Kevins' father and brother.

Only two people gave testimonies for Dallas....his mother and father. They did not need a parade! As a matter of fact, the defense parade only served to bore the court with the same diatribe that "Kevin is a good person and he and Dallas were good friends." How many people do you need to say that someone is a good person and friends with someone?

As much justice as possible under the Official Code of Georgia was served. Not that it is satisfactory to the family that is and will continue to suffer every day for the rest of their lives.

GET A GRIP!

Please seek professional help. Obviously you need it!

“Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, circa 1898


Submitted by skyspy on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 8:06am.

That should be a huge deterrent to kids in PTC next summer.
Is Autreys going to give a discount on guns and bulletproof vests to the innocent citizens of PTC, so we can be protected from the kids here?? It would be an act of charity, and probably a tax writeoff for you Dusty.
We need to be protected from the careless worthless parents and their kids here.

How many more crimeloving, bedwetter judges do we need here, before this county is completly gone?? If I ever break the law(and get caught) I hope I get this knucklehead.

Speaking of knuckleheads, have any parents learned from this? 15-20 beers is nothing, your body adjusts if you binge drink every weekend.

How much gratuitous crime do the sorry parents here have instore for us this summer?? Are any of them going to keep their kids busy, or are they going to be wandering the cartpaths with weapons?

The disgusting part is Johnstons parents attitude, and what appears to be a complete lack of remorse. His mother lashed out at the Crenshaws, for filing a civil suit. Ummmm, yeah, thats how it works.....you or your kids screw up, and someone dies because of it....you get sued. Unless they have an umbrella policy they will probably lose everything. When you CHOOSE to be careless parent, sometimes the consequences are bigger than others.
How many other parents are going to CHOOSE to be carelss this summer??

Submitted by washington1 on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 7:46pm.

16 years ago I lost my sister in a car accident, she being the back seat passenger. Her best friend was the driver! Her best friend was driving at an excessive speed and lost control of the car resulting in my sisters death.Her friend was charged in her death,but as far as suing her that would NOT bring my sister back or my parents child back!!!Money is NOT going to bring your loved one back or make the pain any less.My sisters friend has to live with the guilt every day! So suing the Johnston boy is not the right thing to do, all that would be is DIRTY MONEY!!! So if you could spend money you got from your childs death then to each as on. was'nt the sentence enough? My
sister is still much alive because of our memories we as a family hold dear to our heart everday.

RMEAV8R's picture
Submitted by RMEAV8R on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 11:03pm.

Please be more circumspect when making derogatory comments about issues that are emotionally charged and which you have very limited information. I am sorry for the loss of your sister and my prayers go out to you. However, the circumstances surrounding the loss of your sister are different than the circumstances surrounding this case. This case involves a teen who was intoxicated, had an illegal handgun, had consumed 15 - 20 beers, smoked marijauna, shot someone who later died, attempted to hide the handgun used and lied to police. Only about 3-5% of the information available was reported in the above article. Most of the information given to investigators was not factual and there are still questions which remain unanswered.

In answer to your question...I bet they are not satisfied! He got off light by having 5 other charges dismissed as part of a plea agreement with the DA. One of those charges dismissed was another FELONY! Again, I would not satisfied if I were in their shoes and I dare say neither would you if you knew all the FACTS!


bad_ptc's picture
Submitted by bad_ptc on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 8:04pm.

Money means nothing in you situation.

Keeping the love of your sister is all that matters.

Rest easy, your continued love for your sister is all that's needed.


Submitted by chill on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 12:15am.

Mr. Johnson was not sentenced for "firing a gun that killed..." he was sentenced because he was found guilty of unlawfully committing a criminal act. what was that act/offense? well, unless you went to court you wouldn't know. when is the citizen and it's writers going to stop dramatizing events and report the facts? this is just more of what is to be expected of Munsford, the citizen and their backwards nature. oh yeah, and im sure just about everyone at that party had as much to drink as Johnson did. one gentlemen is in disbelief? where has he been all his life? that is the norm and parents need to wake up or more lives will be ruined.

Submitted by McDonoughDawg on Thu, 03/15/2007 - 9:26pm.

15-20 beers and he was still standing? Hard to believe.

TonyF's picture
Submitted by TonyF on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 7:10am.

and I'd be so bloated and having to pee so badly, I wouldn't know how to even hold a gun much less be able to shoot my best friend. But I have witnessed today's unrestrained youth knocking back some brews and it's amazing what a little training does for them. YEE-HAW!!

"The memories of a man in his old age, are the deeds of a man in his prime.You shuffle in the gloom of the sick room,and talk to yourself as you die."
(R. Waters)


Submitted by Doug on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 5:38am.

Mayor Logsdon can knock down 15-20 beers and still build TDK.

cowtipn's picture
Submitted by cowtipn on Fri, 03/16/2007 - 2:28pm.

Smiling


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