GULFPORT TEEN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS

A Gulfport teenager has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty in a deadly 2024 shooting.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, the teen pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the death of 16-year-old Charlie “CJ” Fairley.
The shooting happened on September 1, 2024, in the area of Robindale Road. Deputies responded to the scene and found Fairley in the roadway suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
Investigators say the incident stemmed from a dispute after the victim attempted to recover money that had been stolen from a relative’s vehicle the day before.
During the plea hearing, the defendant admitted to striking Fairley with a gun before the situation escalated. The defendant told the court they believed the victim may have had a weapon, though prosecutors said there was no evidence the victim physically assaulted the defendant prior to the shooting.
Judge Randi Mueller sentenced the teen to the maximum penalty of 20 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
In court, the defendant apologized to Fairley’s family and accepted responsibility for their actions.
District Attorney W. Crosby Parker called the case a tragic example of youth gun violence.
Fairley was remembered as a strong student, athlete, and leader in the community. He was named Youth of the Year by his local Boys & Girls Club.
The District Attorney’s Office says the case underscores the need for greater awareness and intervention when it comes to youth and firearms.