Gang Leader Sentenced to 40 Years for 2021 Murder, Disrupting OTS Criminal Empire in Middle Georgia
Ishaaq Taylor, the founder and leader of the violent “Only the Shadows” (OTS) gang set, has been sentenced to 60 years in prison, with 40 years to serve, for the 2021 murder of 18-year-old Shamarian “Bobby” Chatfield, a milestone victory in Middle Georgia’s fight against gang violence.
Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney Anita Howard described Taylor as a “dangerous criminal mastermind” who ran a sophisticated gang operation with military-like precision. Evidence presented at trial revealed that Taylor personally carried out the killing of Chatfield at a Marathon gas station on Napier Avenue on October 12, 2021. Chatfield, associated with a rival gang called the “Green Team,” was not the intended target; Taylor had been seeking retaliation after someone allegedly shot at his car. Over four hours, Taylor tracked the intended target before fatally shooting Chatfield in the back.
The investigation revealed that Taylor’s influence extended across Macon, Warner Robins, Hawkinsville, and Perry, with ambitions to expand into Atlanta. The gang operated under a strict hierarchy: Taylor at the top, a tier of “shooters” or “steppers” below him, and general members at the base. Taylor also actively recruited minors from local schools, raising concerns about youth exposure to gang activity. Three co-defendants initially refused to testify at trial, fearing retribution from Taylor.
Taylor’s co-defendants also received sentences:
- Rashawn Taylor: 20 years, serve 7, for Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
- Antonio King: 20 years, serve 10, for Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
- James Tolliver: 20 years, serve 7, for Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
All defendants waived their appellate rights, sparing Chatfield’s family from prolonged legal proceedings.
The prosecution was led by Chief Assistant Tony May and ADA Kayla Callaway, with critical investigative support from Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Gang Unit Sergeant Malcom Bryant. Bryant’s meticulous work in uncovering evidence of Taylor’s gang operations and involvement in the murder was pivotal to securing convictions.
DA Howard emphasized that the case serves as a warning to parents and community members about gang recruitment efforts targeting young people. She urged vigilance, cooperation with law enforcement, and proactive engagement to protect children from gang influence.
Deputies escort convicted gang members to Jackson State Prison:
This conviction not only removes a dangerous criminal from the streets but also disrupts the structure of a highly organized gang, sending a clear message that violent criminal leadership will be met with decisive justice.
