The shootings happened on September 18, 2024. Two people died, and three others were targeted that day.
Victims were Roland Littleowl, 20, and Robert Brown, 39. Both were killed in separate incidents.
A judge imposed two concurrent 35-year prison terms. The court credited Jones with 353 days already served.
He is permanently barred from possessing guns or ammunition under state law.
As part of the plea, prosecutors dismissed a first-degree murder indictment. They also dismissed related attempted murder counts.
Investigators said two people were wounded. A third person was shot at but not struck.
Authorities reported the shootings occurred at or near three Minneapolis encampments. There was no evidence of targeting based on homelessness.
Family members spoke about their loss at sentencing. Loved ones described deep, ongoing grief and daily reminders.
Relatives said Brown called family nearly every day. They said he had struggles but loved and was loved.
Littleowl’s mother submitted a statement. She said the killing took a piece of everyone who loved her son.
Jones declined to address the court before sentencing. His attorney did not release a statement.
By law, he must serve at least 23 years before supervised release is possible. Final release dates depend on corrections rules.
The case avoided a lengthy trial with uncertain outcomes. The plea ensured a long prison term.
Officials said the investigation reviewed several scenes. Evidence tied the incidents to the same defendant.
This sentence closes a major chapter for the victims’ families. Civil or restitution issues could follow in court.
Resources
- Minnesota Courts case access: mncourts.gov
- Minnesota Department of Corrections: mn.gov/doc
- Victim support services: Minnesota Victim Services
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
