By AP
Louisville, KY – A judge has sentenced an alleged Louisville gang member for murdering an 18 year old honors student. Judge Styephen Ryan sentenced DeShawn Parker to 25 years in prison.
Parker still must be tried on a charge of criminal syndication in connection with the actions of Victory Park Crips gang members over several years. Parker was convicted in january in the fatal shooting July 31st, 2000 of Laknogony McCurley, an 18 year old Central High School graduate who had won a scholarship to the University of Louisville.
21 year old Marcus Stallard testified at Parker's trial, then was gunned down outside a public housing complex. No arrests have been made in that case.
Parker's brother, Kenneth, identified in court as the leader of the gang, is scheduled for trial in August. He faces 18 charges in McCurley's death and two others, plus four charges of attempted murder. He could face the death penalty if convicted.