A Tampa jury reached a verdict last night, convicting Alicia Andrews of manslaughter in the shooting death of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio. She was acquitted of charges of conspiracy to commit murder. According to FOX 13, prosecutors stated that Andrews was involved in tracking the rapper before the shooting. In her defense, Andrews testified that she believed the trip was harmless and cited her boyfriend’s abusive behavior as a factor in her participation.
Isaiah Chance, Andrews’ boyfriend, along with three others, has been identified by authorities in connection with a gang-related assault. Andrews’ involvement reportedly included using her car and cellphone in ways meant to avoid drawing attention, as she was not part of the gang. Her legal team disputed this characterization. "Perception is not reality," Life Malcolm, an attorney for Andrews, told FOX 13. He added that being present among individuals with criminal intent does not automatically link her to those intentions.
The case against Andrews highlighted her presence outside a Tampa hotel during the rapper’s final moments. First Coast News reported that Andrews stated she was unaware of any plan, remaining in the car while the attack took place and believing they were simply going to get food. Her testimony also addressed a text message in which she had written that Foolio "needed to die," which was discussed during the trial.
With the verdict announced, attention now turns to the upcoming trials of Andrews’ co-defendants. Andrews is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8 and may face a significant prison term, as per Action News Jax. The case involves multiple relationships and alleged gang connections that played a role in the events leading to the death of the local music artist.
