A Lake Worth teenager who was already legally barred from possessing a firearm is now facing attempted murder charges after a daylight shooting that left another young male wounded. Youdnelson Jean, also known as “Fawty,” was taken into custody after investigators say cellphone video and witness identifications tied him to the shooting on Plains Drive.
The shooting left a young male victim with a gunshot wound to his left arm, and he was transported to St. Mary's Medical Center, according to WPEC. Witnesses and the victims identified Jean as the shooter, who fled the scene on foot, the station reported.
Cellphone Footage Becomes Key Evidence
Investigators said cellphone video footage showing Jean holding and pointing the firearm directly at the victims played a central role in identifying him as a suspect. The outlet's reporting indicates that video evidence, combined with identifications from those present, helped build the case against him.
A search of Jean's residence on Triphammer Road turned up clothing matching what was seen in the video, along with a black handgun and matching ammunition, per the same account. Jean was initially booked on two counts of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm.
Already Barred From Owning a Gun
What makes the case especially notable to investigators is that Jean was already legally barred from possessing a firearm under an active Risk Protection Order at the time of the shooting. Authorities also added a charge for violating that order, stemming from a July incident in which Jean allegedly pistol-whipped another teen, the station's report states.
Under Florida law, a court may issue a risk protection order for up to 12 months, according to Florida Statute 790.401. Anyone subject to such an order must immediately surrender all firearms and ammunition and is barred from possessing or purchasing them while the order remains active, the statute states.
Part of a Broader Push on Youth Gun Crime
A Florida law increased consequences for teens caught with guns, according to ClickOrlando.
It remains unclear how Jean's case will proceed through the court system.
