By Billy Davis

A Batesville police detective, testifying Tuesday at a preliminary hearing, disclosed more details about the January 16 shooting that killed Jeremy Wright.

Wright was shot once with a high-powered rifle during a dispute at an apartment complex between rival gangs Mafia Vice Lords and the Gangster Disciples, BPD Detective Paul Shivers said.

The detective was testifying for the prosecution at a hearing for Sharika Harris, 20. She is charged with conspiracy to commit murder along with Latasha Taylor, her roommate at the Lester Street apartments. 

Shivers said a gunfight between the two gangs — which eventually led to Wright’s shooting — began when Harris, an alleged member of the Vice Lords, noticed Gangster Disciple Roderick Scurlock at the apartments.

It was not clear from court testimony if Wright showed up with Scurlock, though Shivers told a reporter after the hearing that Wright was affiliated with the Gangster Disciples.

Shivers said he could not talk elaborate further about the case since a criminal trial is pending in circuit court.

Judge Bill McKenzie found probable cause that Harris’ case should be presented to a Panola County grand jury.

The judge also ordered her bond reduced from $350,000 to $100,000.

Harris was present with defense attorney Ottowa Carter Jr. of Clinton.

Look for more of the story in The Panolian’s February 3 issue.