Jesup Man Sentenced for Fatal Shooting After Meth-Fueled Altercation

Lanis Brown, 32, of Jesup, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 10 years of probation, for the shooting death of Zakkary Johnson, 24, also of Jesup.

A Wayne County jury found Brown guilty on August 28, 2024, of Voluntary Manslaughter and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony.

Evidence presented at trial showed that on February 3, 2023, Brown, who had been on a three-day methamphetamine binge, traveled to a shed on Community Circle in Jesup. While there, he used more methamphetamine with a woman and two other individuals.

When Zakkary Johnson arrived, an argument ensued between Brown and Johnson, leading to a physical altercation. After the altercation ended, Johnson continued to argue with Brown. Brown then pulled out a handgun and fatally shot Johnson in the chest.

Brown fled the scene and was arrested four days later. During an interview with law enforcement, Brown admitted to the shooting but claimed self-defense. The jury deliberated for three hours before returning guilty verdicts.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Presley and Assistant District Attorney A.J. Smart. The lead investigator was Investigator Bruce Williams of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.