Atlanta Man Sentenced in the Death of Boxing Champion Vernon Forrest

ATLANTA, GA — An Atlanta man, Charmon Sinkfield, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in connection to the 2009 murder of boxing champion Vernon Forrest, the Office of the Fulton County District Attorney announced Tuesday.

On July 25, 2009, Forrest, joined by his 10-year-old godson, went to a Southwest Atlanta gas station to put air in his tire. Forrest stepped out of his vehicle and was robbed by three men at gunpoint.

Forrest then chased after the men — who were identified as Demario Ware, Jquante Crews and Sinkfield.

Forrest chased after Ware, who stole Forrest's championship ring and watch at gunpoint. Ware escaped into a nearby apartment complex, and was later driven away from the scene by Crews.

Forrest then caught up to Sinkfield, and as Forrest turned to walk away, Sinkfield shot Forrest five times in the back. Sinkfield continued to shoot at Forrest as he stood over his body.

The Fulton County District Attorney’s office sought the Death Penalty in the case. Sinkfield was instead charged with two terms of life without the possibility of parole plus ten years on Murder, Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault and related gun charges on Oct. 28.

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