Killer Sentenced After 6 Years for 2020 Slaying

Nearly six years after Andre Boyd, also known as AJ, was fatally shot, his killer has been sent to prison. Curtis Beatty, who was slated for a first-degree murder trial next month, entered a voluntary manslaughter plea deal on Friday.

Beatty will now serve a sentence of 7.5 to 10 years. AJ Boyd's mother, Jamineka Davis, described her son as a bright young man with dreams of becoming a NASCAR driver. His life was tragically cut short in July 2020 during a meeting at a north Charlotte apartment complex off Nevin Road, where he was shot seven times.

Beatty's defense claimed self-defense, and prosecutors acknowledged potential weaknesses in their case. Davis conveyed that while she believes the judge was sympathetic, the justice system ultimately failed her and her son. Chief Superior Court Judge Carla Archie sternly addressed Beatty, stating that his debt is paid by his future contributions to the community.