July 21 saw closing arguments in the jury trial of Terrill Barfield, 40, and Jarvis Sir Goria Joyner, 35, who are charged with two counts of first-degree murder and multiple firearm-related offenses in connection with a fatal Jan. 12, 2024, shooting of Deon Beasley.
The state argued Barfield and Joyner exchanged text messages and recordings of the victim’s Instagram account before the shooting indicating they were planning the attack. Prosecutors allege Barfield served as the getaway driver while Joyner acted as a lookout.
The prosecutor acknowledged that neither Barfield nor Joyner shot Beasley. However, the state alleges that a Odyssey minivan was used to transport and drop off the shooters. Barfield was reportedly driving, and Joyner was in the passenger seat.
According to the prosecution, surveillance video shows the stolen vehicle circling a barbershop before two gunmen exited the van and chased the victim, who was shot multiple times and died the next day.
Prosecutors also presented evidence that co-defendant Lakeem Whitaker discarded a gun and clothing after the shooting and that Joyner’s cellphone contained messages discussing the plan.
Defense attorneys argued the state failed to prove either defendant fired a weapon, handled a firearm or knowingly participated in the shooting. They emphasized there was no DNA linking Barfield to the van, no evidence establishing where either defendant was seated in the van during the police chase, and gaps in surveillance footage tracking the vehicle.
The defense also criticized the police investigation, arguing officers mishandled evidence after Joyner’s cellphone was lost during the towing process and failed to collect other electronic devices during a search warrant.
The jury trial is scheduled to continue before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Althea M. Handy.
