MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Opening statements began Tuesday in the trial of Latoshia Daniels, accused of fatally shooting Memphis pastor Brodes Perry and injuring his wife at a Collierville apartment complex in 2019. Daniels faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and using a firearm during a felony. She has pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution argued that Daniels carried out the shooting after a sexual relationship with Perry ended. Prosecutor Kevin McAlpin said Daniels, a former church member and life group leader in Little Rock, purchased a gun and traveled to Perry’s apartment after he informed her he wanted to end their relationship. McAlpin noted that Perry’s wife, Tabatha Archie, allowed Daniels into the apartment and was friendly with her, unaware of the prior relationship.
The defense, led by attorney Lauren Fuchs, argued that Daniels acted out of emotional distress rather than premeditation. Fuchs detailed a history of abusive relationships for Daniels, and said Daniels met Perry for counseling before their sexual relationship began. The defense also described an “ethical non-monogamy” arrangement Perry suggested, and claimed Daniels felt betrayed when the relationship ended. Fuchs said Daniels purchased a gun and confronted Perry impulsively, telling the court, “She did not think about what was happening. In that moment, she broke. And she did shoot Brodes Perry, while screaming, ‘He broke my heart.’”
During testimony, Tabatha Archie recounted that Daniels came to the apartment claiming to attend a conference. She described being shot in the shoulder by Daniels after briefly leaving the apartment, unaware of the two-year relationship between Daniels and her husband.
The judge gave final instructions to the jury before adjourning at 4:30 p.m. The trial will continue Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., with live streaming available via WREG.
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