BCSO GameOver Task Force Arrest Suspect In Cocoa Shooting, Charged With Felony Murder
By Space Coast Daily // April 6, 2017
20-year-old Adrian Corice Johnson Jr. Arrested
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Brevard County GameOver Task Force has arrested 20-year-old Adrian Corice Johnson Jr. of Cocoa, for his part in a botched robbery that led to the shooting death of Ladarius Bentley.
Sheriff’s Office says Johnson was arrested after a warrant was issued, charging him with Felony Murder.
Johnson was transported to the Brevard County Jail Complex where he remains on a no bond status.
The investigation started on March 16, when deputies responded to 3617 Brophy Blvd. in unincorporated Cocoa, after a 911 emergency call advised that a person had been shot in the residence.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered Bentley dead inside the house.
“The investigation revealed that Johnson and Bentley developed a plan to rob Mario Rivera-Verduzco Jr., who was a former co-worker of Johnson. Rivera-Verduzco was lured to the house under the pretense of selling drugs to Johnson and Bentley,” said Tod Goodyear of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.
“After arriving at the residence, Rivera-Verduzco was confronted by Bentley who was armed with a handgun. A struggle ensued over the firearm where Rivera-Verduzco was able to gain control of the gun, shooting Bentley who was mortally wounded and died at the residence. During the altercation, Johnson fled the scene,” Goodyear added.
The investigation revealed that Rivera-Verduzco actions during the incident were justified and he will not face charges in reference to the death of Bentley.
Anyone who may have information about this Homicide is asked to please call Agent Joe Martin of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit at 321-633-8413 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
All calls to CRIMELINE are confidential and callers can remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward.
ABOVE MAP: The investigation started on March 16, when deputies responded to 3617 Brophy Blvd. in unincorporated Cocoa, after a 911 emergency call advised that a person had been shot in the residence.
