Judge sentences defendants in 2021 Midtown Columbus marijuana deal ending in murder

A judge handed down sentences for two men involved in a May 2021 midtown Columbus marijuana deal that ended in the death of a 20-year-old.

Zajaliq Riley, 22, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole by Judge Gil McBride Wednesday morning for the murder of Devion Miley.

Riley was found guilty of felony murder, criminal attempt to commit a felony, and possession of a firearm in the attempted commission of a felony.

Cries came from Riley’s family as he was sentenced to life in prison. Prosecutor Robin Anthony stressed Riley’s lack of remorse in the prosecution’s argument for life in prison without parole.

Defense attorney for Riley, Michael Garner, argued the need for rehabilitation and asked the judge for life in prison with the possibility of parole. Riley did not make a statement.

Detric Bush, who had his murder charge dropped for his testimony against Riley, was sentenced to a total of 15 years with five years to be spent on probation and 10 years spent in community supervision.

A statement read from Miley’s family said they prayed for Bush’s safety and said, “He chose to do the right thing.”

Anthony called Bush’s testimony “instrumental” and McBride said Bush, “...set a very worthy example,” which Anthony agreed with.

Bush made a statement addressing Miley’s family saying he was sorry for their loss.

Background

The shooting occurred after a marijuana deal where defendants attempted to pay Miley through Cash App multiple times with some being declined or rejected, according to testimony.

Anthony argued that Riley grew impatient due to not having the money to buy the marijuana based on the attempted Cash App transfers. Riley’s frustrations led him to abruptly stop the car, order Miley out, and shoot him, Anthony argued.

In a cell phone conversation with Riley, Bush said he secretly recorded three days after the shooting, Riley told Bush “Damn, I popped, bro,” in the video shown to the jury.