Staff report based on a press release from State Attorney Brian Kramer

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Three Gainesville men were indicted by the Alachua County Spring Term Grand Jury on Wednesday, July 30.

Moses McCoy

Moses Elliott McCoy, aged 34, has been charged with sexual battery against an individual under the age of 12, with McCoy being 18 or older. The incident, which took place in 2022 in Gainesville, was scrutinized by the Spring Term Grand Jury. This jury examined evidence, including statements from law enforcement, and subsequently decided to indict McCoy.

Marquis Byrd and Dalvin Smith

Marquis Byrd, aged 30, and Dalvin A. Smith, aged 28, are facing indictments for first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. Additionally, Byrd is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm due to his status as a convicted felon.

On January 9, 2024, the Gainesville Police Department was alerted to a shooting incident at 3643 SW 20th Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered Rohntavious Hayes deceased, succumbing to gunshot wounds. Detectives soon identified Byrd and Smith as the prime suspects in Hayes’ murder. After reviewing all evidence, including testimony from law enforcement, the Spring Term Grand Jury issued a True Bill, indicting Byrd and Smith for first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit this crime. Byrd also faces charges for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

State Attorney Brian Kramer, along with Assistant State Attorney Brooke King and Assistant State Attorney Christopher Elsey, presented the cases to the Grand Jury, and Judge Kristine Van Vorst received the findings from the Grand Jury. McCoy, Byrd, and Smith were remanded to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Department of the Jail and are being held without bond.