ARBY MOSES’ KILLER BROUGHT TO JUSTICE

Greenville, MS—Norris Smith, Jr., 23, of Greenville was convicted of Second Degree Murder in Washington County following a guilty plea, District Attorney W. Dewayne Richardson announced today.

Testimony at the previously pending trial would have revealed that on the night of September 26, 2018, officers of the Greenville Police Department were called to a shooting with a possible victim in the 500 block of McAlister Street. Upon their arrival, an officer rushed to a shot Arby’s side as he fought to keep the life from leaving his body. When asked who shot him, he was able to mutter the phrase “Lil Norris.” Moses was transported to Delta Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased.

Led by Investigator Tammie Hudson, detectives on scene leapt into action—quickly gathering evidence and identifying witnesses. Witnesses in the area informed investigators that Moses was in the area earlier but had left. After he left, they heard multiple gunshots before they were visited by an individual they knew as “Black”—Norris Smith, Jr.—who appeared panicked and told them that he had just shot Arby. Another witness told investigators that he observed a black sedan with out of state plates in the area prior to the shooting.

Detectives tracked the vehicle down and spoke with one its occupants. He advised that he was in the vehicle when Smith, Jr. spotted Moses, exited the car and shot him down. Smith was later questioned but, up until today’s guilty plea, denied any involvement. Along with several witness statements contradicting his claims, Smith’s hands tested positive for Gunshot Residue following a forensic analysis. He was arrested and charged with the homicide.

Smith’s case was set to proceed to a trial later this spring. He decided to forego a trial and pled guilty to Second Degree Murder. He was sentenced to the District Attorney’s recommendation of 35 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections, with 20 years to serve. He will have an opportunity to have the remaining 15 years suspended if he can successfully complete 5 years of post-release supervision, or “probation,” following his release.

Assistant District Attorney Kaylon McCou, offered the State’s recommendation to the Court following Smith, Jr.’s guilty plea. “There is no number of years a defendant can serve that can fill the gap left by the untimely and senseless taking of a family member. We can only seek to get as close to justice as possible and pray that it provides some healing for the loved ones left to process this unimaginable tragedy.” McCou added.

The Office of the District Attorney thanks the committed investigators of the Greenville Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division. Their work makes this city a safer and better place.

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resources

Attorney General

www.ago.state.ms.us

MDOC

www.ms.gov

Federal Prisoners

www.bop.gov

Sex Offender Registry

state.sor.dps.ms.gov

AG Victim Unit

www.ago.state.ms.us

Our Mission

The mission of the District Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Circuit Court, under the direction of
W. Dewayne Richardson, is to seek justice in order to maintain an environment of safety, security and lawful behavior for the citizens of the Fourth District.

The Office of the District Attorney uses lawful and reasonable methods to successfully identify and prosecute those who commit felony crimes. When a crime occurs, the Office of the District Attorney diligently pursues the indictment and conviction of those responsible, while adhering to all rights of the Victim, ensuring the victim is being provided all direct services applicable, and acknowledging all constitutional safeguards for the accused.

The District Attorney’s Office for the Fourth
District’s goal is to work with law enforcement and the judiciary to punish those who break our laws with adequate punishment. Every representative of the Office of the District Attorney pledges their commitment and full support to the protection of all citizens within the Fourth Circuit Court District.

Contact

Greenville Office
P.O. Box 426
Greenville MS 38702
[P] 662.378.2105
[F] 662.332.4665
generalinfo@msdeltada.com

Indianola Office
P.O. Box 1046
Indianola, MS 38751
[P] 662.887.4306
[F] 662.887.6275
generalinfo@msdeltada.com

Greenwood Office
P.O. Box 253
Greenwood, MS 38935
[P] 662.453.1089
[F] 662.451.7291
generalinfo@msdeltada.com

Judicial Process

Citizen's Involvement in the criminal justice system typically begins with them being a victim, witness, or defendant of a crime. Arrests are made generally by a judge-issued warrant or by a police officer observing a crime in process. Law enforcement may also arrest someone if it has probable cause to believe the person committed a criminal offense. When individuals are arrested they are routinely advised of their Miranda Rights upon arrest, advising them that they have the right to remain silent and that anything they say will be used against them in court. On being questioned, defendants have the right to have their attorney present or to have one appointed if they are indigent.

Felony defendants appear at a first appearance and have the charges reviewed. A judge will inquire if the defendant has an attorney. If low income, the defendant may qualify for a court-appointed lawyer. No plea is entered at this time unless the defendant wishes to plead guilty or waives indictment and has an attorney present. All felony cases are presented to a grand jury in the county that the crime was committed. In the State of Mississippi, only a grand jury has the authority to indict an individual for a felony offense and require them to stand trial for the charges alleged in an affidavit and indictment.

If an indictment is issued, the defendant is bound over to stand trial or enter a guilty plea to the crimes alleged. When a criminal trial occurs all 12 jurors must find the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Sentences are decided by Circuit Court Judges in all criminal matters. In most cases a recommendation is made regarding imprisonment, probation, fines and restitution.

Municipalities

• City of Greenville

• City of Hollandale
• City of Leland
• City of Metcalfe

• Washington County
• City of Indianola
• City of Ruleville
• City of Drew

• City of Moorhead

• City of Inverness

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• Sunflower County

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• Leflore County

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