Johnson City man convicted in 2021 overdose death
Share and Follow


JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — A Johnson City man has been convicted of murder in connection to another man’s overdose death.

A jury convicted Austin Forkpa of second-degree murder, sale of methamphetamine, and sale of fentanyl, according to a release by the district attorney’s office.

Forkpa was charged following the death of 20-year-old Bueford Patton III, who was found unresponsive by friends on Sept. 18, 2021.

According to the release, an investigation by Johnson City police revealed that Patton and two friends were attending a bachelor party when they obtained narcotics from Forkpa, who told them the drugs were Percocet and MDMA, or ecstasy.

“Unknown to the young men, Mr. Forkpa actually sold them fentanyl and methamphetamine,” the district attorney’s office said.

On June 4, the third day of the trial, the jury convicted Forkpa on all counts.

The second-degree murder conviction carries a 15-25 year prison sentence at 100%, according to the release. Forkpa also faces 12-20 years at 35% for the sale of methamphetamine and 6-10 years for the sale of fentanyl.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Sept. 2.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Sheriff’s Office Receives $1.2 Million Grant to Upgrade Patrol Vehicles Before July 4th

AUGUSTA, Ga. ()- One of Sheriff Eugene Brantley’s biggest goals since he…

5 key points after the Senate passes a significant bill for Trump to the House

Senate Republicans endured a 26-hour slog before finally passing President Trump’s ambitious…

World War II veteran’s family reunited with his Purple Heart

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — After 24 years since its disappearance, a family…

Wife of suspended Osceola sheriff, Robin Severance Lopez, had a good record as a deputy, as per documents

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – Robin Severance Lopez could walk out of the…

Passing downpours Thursday and Friday

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Coastal showers have already been moving onshore this…

Man from Champaign taken into custody for severe sexual assault and battery allegations

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A 31-year-old Champaign man was arrested on aggravated…

The temporary halt in funding makes Central Florida youth programs anxious

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida say they are at…

Record Turnout at Shepeard Community Blood Center’s Botox for Blood Event

AUGUSTA, Ga. () – A unique event happening now where if you…