Julio Foolio’s killer has launched a GoFundMe appeal campaign seeking $100,000 for legal representation.
Sean Gathright, one of four men who murdered Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio, launched an appeals campaign days after he was found guilty on all charges.
The 20-year-old’s family created an Instagram account and a GoFundMe page to raise money for legal representation, with a stated goal of $100,000 to hire an appellate attorney.
The GoFundMe description paints a sympathetic picture of Garth Wright, claiming he is “only 20 years old” and faces “the fight of a lifetime” after being convicted in a case that “completely changed the course of his future.”
His sister Navaya confirmed the legitimacy of the accounts in a video posted on her official Instagram page and asked supporters to share the fundraiser and donate if possible. However, the appeal effort has been harshly criticized. As of the latest update, the GoFundMe has raised only $400 of its $100,000 goal.
The family’s message relies heavily on religious references, with the Instagram bio citing Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for good to those who love him, to those who are called according to his purpose.”
The conviction came after overwhelming evidence was presented during the trial.
Phone tracking data showed Garth Wright was near the location of the murder at the time of the murder. Airbnb video shows him at the scene, and witnesses confirm he changed cars at his grandmother’s house.
Prosecutors also presented evidence that Guthright provided the vehicle and gun used in the ambush and killing of Folio, whose real name was Charles Jones.
Garth Wright was 18 years old at the time of the murder. The GoFundMe description acknowledges that he “made decisions” that led to his conviction, but his family believes he deserves redemption given his age and lack of criminal history.
“Everyone deserves a second chance at redemption,” the fundraiser says.
“Sean is so young, has no criminal record, and his future is so bright, we are working hard to provide him with the redemption that everyone deserves.”
Garth Wright posted the call on his Instagram account, thanking supporters for their messages and donations.
“In these difficult times, it really means a lot,” he said. “We all know God has the final say and I really appreciate you seeing me in a different light.”
The family pledged to “pursue every possible legal avenue, including post-conviction motions, appeals, mitigation efforts and advocacy surrounding his sentencing and future.”
They cited the costs of legal representation, expert consultations, transcripts, travel and family support as reasons for their fundraising efforts.
Garthright and three co-defendants – Isaiah Chance, Davion Murphy and Rashad Murphy – were all found guilty of first-degree premeditated murder in Foolio’s death.
The case attracted widespread media attention because of the victim’s visibility and the context of the ambush killing.
