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Francis shot the victim near a barbershop on Merrick Boulevard in Laurelton.
By Forum Staff
A St . Albans resident has been sentenced to up to 20 years in prison for shooting a former friend outside of a Merrick Boulevard barbershop in Laurelton on June 13, 2018. The defendant argued and fought with the victim prior to shooting him once in the face.
Acting Queens District Attorney John Ryan said, “The defendant in this case cold-heartedly shot and could have killed a man he once considered a friend. The victim suffered serious injuries during the shooting and had to have surgery. The sentence imposed by the Court is appropriate.”
David Francis, 24, was convicted of second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Queens Supreme Court Justice Ira Margulis, who presided at the June trial, sentenced the defendant to 20 years in prison to be followed by five years’ post-release supervision.
According to trial records, at approximately 11 p.m. on June 13, 2018, Francis arranged to meet the victim, Khaleel Williams, at a barbershop on Merrick Boulevard and 228th Street. They were supposed to be settling a dispute over a car. Shortly after the 29-year-old victim entered the shop, a verbal dispute ensued between the two men and that escalated to a physical fight. During the course of the altercation, Williams was asked to leave the barbershop. The defendant then followed the victim outside and demanded money for his damaged car, but the victim refused to pay him.
Francis then pulled out a gun and fired once at the victim, striking him in the face. Williams sustained extensive facial and mouth wounds requiring surgery.
