Phoenix, Arizona – A 16-year-old suspect, Jason “JJ” Richards, has been taken into custody on June 5 for his alleged involvement in the tragic death of 15-year-old Giaginette Brown last September in Phoenix. Richards faces multiple charges, including murder, after being connected to a shooting incident that claimed Brown’s life. The victim, a cheerleader at West Point High School, was fatally shot while sleeping in her bed at a home near 107th Avenue and Camelback Road in the early morning hours of September 3, 2023.
Previously, a 17-year-old suspect was arrested in January in connection with the shooting, leading to the identification of Richards as a possible suspect. Phoenix police have indicated that the shooting may have been unintentional during a targeted drive-by incident, suggesting the involvement of additional individuals in the crime. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact 480-WITNESS to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The Silent Witness program in Arizona facilitates the reporting of tips and information regarding crimes within local communities. The program disseminates information on unsolved felony cases through various channels such as television, radio, and social media, allowing individuals to come forward with valuable information while maintaining their anonymity. Those who provide tips leading to an arrest or indictment in a case may be eligible to receive a reward of up to $1,000, encouraging community involvement in solving crimes.
Individuals with knowledge of criminal activities or who can identify suspects described by the Silent Witness program are encouraged to contact 480-948-6377, visit the program’s website, or download the Silent Witness app to submit tips discreetly. Calls to the program are answered by live personnel 24/7, ensuring that tips are promptly relayed to the appropriate detectives for further investigation. The initiative serves as a crucial tool in combatting crime and fostering collaboration between law enforcement and the community to ensure public safety and justice for victims like Giaginette Brown.