Today (Jun 17), Antwann Tyedouglas RICKS (21) entered a plea of No Contest to Count 1- Second Degree Murder (LF), Count 2 - Burglary of a Conveyance with Assault or Battery Reclassified (LF), and Count 3 - Attempted Robbery with a Firearm (F2) in connection to the death of Bryce Williams (17), on New Years Day 2018 at Lake Hodge Park in Casselberry.

 

As part of the plea agreement, Judge Marlene Alva adjudicated RICKS guilty and sentenced him to 20 years in the Department of Corrections for Counts 1 and 2, and 15 years DOC for count 3, all to be served concurrently. RICKS was given credit for 470 days already served.

 

During a two year investigation, Casselberry Police gathered evidence and witness testimony that placed RICKS at Lake Hodge Park where he had agreed to meet and purchase drugs from Williams. RICKS brought a firearm with the intent of robbing Williams, however when he opened the drivers door of Williams car, Williams observed the firearm and accelerated. That action and suspected contact with the firearm, resulted in RICKS discharging a single shot that struck Williams in the neck killing him.

 

Plea negotiations began after RICKS agreed to accept responsibility for Williams murder as part of a failed robbery attempt. While there was some question as to RICKS inadvertent discharge of the firearm, the evidence and witness testimony were likely insufficient to prove First Degree Premeditated Murder beyond a reasonable doubt to a jury. 

 

In a statement State Attorney Phil Archer said "No sentence can adequately account for the tragic death of a 17-year-old young man and I understand the frustration and anger felt by the Williams family. However, serving 20 years in state prison is a very long time, and I hope ultimately it will provide closure, healing, and justice on behalf of Bryce and his loved ones."

 

RICKS will remain in custody at the Seminole County Jail until his transfer to the Florida Department of Corrections where he'll begin serving his sentence.