Teen Pleads Guilty to 2021 Murder of Columbus Cab Driver

On March 25, 2021, Paul Lokey, 43, was fatally shot while driving his cab in Columbus, GA. Lokey had recently started working as a cab driver, having completed several training shifts. This was his first solo shift when, in the early morning hours, three individuals, including 16-year-old Javeon Stephens, entered his cab. After traveling less than a mile, Lokey was shot from the rear passenger side, causing him to lose control of the vehicle and crash into a fire hydrant. Lokey died from the gunshot wound shortly after the incident.

Following the murder, the Columbus Police Department launched an investigation that led to the arrest of Stephens and other individuals connected to the crime. A new district attorney was appointed after the case had been indicted, but a legal conflict prevented this DA’s office from prosecuting the case. Consequently, the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia requested Newton County District Attorney Randy McGinley to handle the prosecution.

The trial was set to commence on July 9, 2024. However, just before jury selection, Stephens opted to plead guilty. After a short break to allow further discussions between Stephens and his attorney, he formally entered guilty pleas to charges of murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Sentencing has been scheduled for September 27, 2024, and Stephens remains in custody.

The prosecution was led by District Attorney Randy McGinley, supported by Chief Investigator Kelly Whire and Victim Services Director Leslie Smith. The prosecution team, having made multiple trips to Columbus, was fully prepared for trial. The Columbus Police Department and Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office provided significant assistance during the investigation and preparation for trial.

Due to pending sentencing and ongoing charges against another defendant, the State has not provided additional comments.