Jeremy Reddick, 34, has been found guilty of second-degree murder regarding Dakoda Martin’s death, 21, and assault with a weapon to Andre Williams, a friend of Dakoda who was also involved in the altercation and resulted with minor injuries 2 years ago in Victoria Park.
“It’s been a long two and half years. This process has been excruciating,” says Cindy Martin, mother of the young man that was killed. “I wouldn’t wish it to my worst enemy,” she adds.
Dakoda’s family burst into tears in the courtroom, as well, a women identified as Reddick’s partner after the jury spent 6 hours deliberating in a private room and then came out with the verdict.
“Justice was served today, thank God. Reddick is going to serve the sentence of life,” says Dakota’s mother, “he is a murdered and a monster, and he should stay there forever and ever. He will see my face until I take my last breath and I vow that.”
Today’s verdict becomes automatically a life sentence with no chance of parole for 10 to 25 years. Half of the 12 jurors suggested a 10 years term after Superior Court Justice Helen Rady asked for recommendations.
Dakoda Martin, 21. Picture displayed during Jeremy Reddick’s sentencing hearing
Dakoda’s parents described him as an amazing boy that had so much love to share. They say he lived his life helping others and that was what it ultimately took his life.
“He is going to be missed by his beautiful daughter, who will never know him. We just miss him terribly,” adds his mother in tears.
Dakoda’s father, Bill Martin says the city needs to “clean up the streets” and that police need to “check the guys walking down the street with guns and knives.”
“I am worried about my grand kids. Now, I have to look around at every corner because of these folks,” he adds.
On May 28th 2016, a group of friends including Martin, Reddick, Williams, and Alisje Alvarado headed downtown for drinks and to share cocaine, something that Reddick admitted he purchased to share with them at about 3:00 am in Victoria Park. The fun night ended up in tragedy after a fight broke between Reddick and Martin, leaving Martin stabbed in the upper chest.
That same night Martin was killed and “five other people were stabbed that weekend,” adds Martin’s mom.
“This is your city people, you need to take it back. You need to take your city back,” she reiterates.
The case will be back in court on October 9 to set a sentencing hearing.
