A New Orleans jury has reached a verdict in the case of Daphne Jackson, the 25-year-old woman involved in the 2022 Bourbon Street shooting that tragically killed a bartender and injured a tourist. The incident, which unfolded outside the popular Cat’s Meow bar, has resulted in a guilty verdict for Jackson on charges of manslaughter and aggravated assault.
On March 20, 2022, gunfire erupted on the vibrant Bourbon Street after an altercation. Amidst the chaos, bullets struck an unsuspecting 21-year-old tourist and Spencer Hudson, a 46-year-old bartender working inside the Cat’s Meow. Tragically, a bullet pierced the wall of the bar, fatally wounding Hudson.
Spencer Hudson succumbed to his injuries within the confines of the Cat’s Meow, a bar known for its lively atmosphere which turned into a scene of tragedy that early Sunday morning. Police investigations swiftly led to Jackson’s arrest, initially facing serious charges including murder, attempted murder, and obstruction of justice. Notably, the firearm used in the shooting was never recovered by authorities.
In a courtroom filled with tense anticipation, the jury delivered its verdict. Jackson was convicted of the lesser charges of manslaughter in Hudson’s death and aggravated assault for the tourist’s injuries. She was acquitted on the charge of obstruction of justice.
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The outcome of the trial has left Spencer Hudson’s family and friends deeply disappointed. Speaking outside the courthouse, Hudson’s father expressed his dissatisfaction with the verdict, stating he believed Jackson should have been convicted on all original charges. Despite their disappointment, they acknowledged the possibility of a significant sentence for the manslaughter and aggravated assault convictions.
Daphne Jackson now faces a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 2, where the judge will determine the length of her incarceration, bringing a close to this chapter of the Bourbon Street tragedy that began outside the Cat’s Meow.
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