No bond set yet for Aiken man accused in Myrtle Beach killing
CONWAY, S.C. (WMBF) - A judge did not immediately make a decision on bond for an Aiken man accused of killing a teenager in Myrtle Beach earlier this summer.
A judge decided to take bond consideration for 18-year-old Gary Abraham under advisement after a hearing on Thursday. It’s unclear when a decision will be made.
Abraham faces several charges, including murder, in the July shooting death Jakolbi Taylor, a 16-year-old from Roanoke, Va.
Taylor was visiting Myrtle Beach with an AAU basketball team when he was shot on July 20 at the beach access on 16th Avenue North.
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During Thursday’s hearing, Abraham’s defense argued that he has strong ties to South Carolina and would not be a flight risk if released. His attorneys also said their client does not have a prior criminal history, would have a job waiting for him and requested home detention as well as GPS monitoring.
The defense also argued Abraham’s case is one of self-defense, adding that he cooperated with law enforcement and provided statements to help in the investigation.
of Abraham’s family, including his father, also spoke asking the judge to consider a bond. His father notably also said that his son’s charges “are not a one-sided case.” The defense ultimately asked again for a “reasonable bond with special conditions.”
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Prosecutors responded in their argument claiming that Abraham was the only one with a gun and was the only one who fired.
of Taylor’s family, including his grandmother, also addressed the court. Taylor’s grandmother mentioned today would have been his 17th birthday, with other family stating they feel Abraham is a risk to the community and themselves if he were to be released.
Arrest warrants state Abraham encountered Taylor and a group Taylor was with at the 16th Avenue North beach access. Those documents also state Abraham motioned for the group to follow him down to the beach.
That’s when Abraham allegedly took off a backpack he was wearing and opened fire. Taylor was hit multiple times and later died of his injuries. The moments when Abraham took off his backpack were also caught on camera, according to warrants.
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