Barton Found Guilty of First-Degree Murder in 2018 Westside Shooting

State Attorney Melissa Nelson announces that Cason Barton was found guilty by a jury of First-Degree Murder and Attempted Armed Robbery. With the verdict, Barton faces a mandatory sentence of life in Florida State Prison. The Honorable Kevin Blazs will sentence Barton during a March 24, 2023, hearing.

On Sept. 5, 2018, Barton and his co-defendant went to an apartment complex on Jammes Road to rob the victim during a business transaction. Barton and his co-defendant confronted the victim outside of his apartment and a struggle ensued over a firearm. Barton then shot the victim multiple times and fled the scene. Detectives with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and began an investigation that revealed Barton’s DNA inside the getaway vehicle, and social media messages between Barton and the victim immediately prior to the shooting. While Barton was in custody, he also admitted his involvement to other inmates. Additionally, the gun Barton used in the crime was found in his bedroom.

The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Khary Gaynor and Jennie Edwards.