Gwinnett Man Sentenced to Life Without Parole for Gang-Related Murder and Robbery Spree

A Gwinnett County jury has found a Grayson man guilty for his role in a string of gang-related armed robberies that culminated in a deadly shooting earlier this year.

On Friday morning, jurors convicted 20-year-old Adrian “Draino” Synclare Johnson on a sweeping list of charges tied to the February 2025 killing of 24-year-old Gerryon Ly’Darrius Ceasor. The convictions included malice murder, four counts of felony murder, violation of Georgia’s RICO Act, multiple counts of criminal gang activity, armed robbery, attempted armed robbery, drive-by shooting, aggravated assault, and several firearm-related offenses.

Following the verdict, Johnson was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus an additional consecutive life sentence, followed by another 20 years in confinement.

According to prosecutors, the case stemmed from a series of coordinated crimes carried out by Johnson and other gang members. On January 4, 2025, Johnson conspired with fellow members to rob a victim of a Draco-style semi-automatic pistol. Less than a month later, on February 2, Johnson arranged a meeting with Ceasor under the pretense of purchasing marijuana at a location in Snellville.

When Ceasor arrived at the meet-up, investigators said Johnson and his co-defendants pulled up alongside his vehicle and attempted to rob him of the drugs. During the confrontation, the suspects opened fire on Ceasor’s car, striking him and killing him at the scene.

District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson said the verdict sends a clear message about the county’s stance on gang violence. She thanked the jury for its work and said the sentence reflects the seriousness of crimes that place the community in danger and result in the loss of life. She added that the office hopes the outcome brings a measure of justice and peace to Ceasor’s family and loved ones.

Six additional suspects were indicted in connection with the case: Jordan Maurice Luna, 19; Solomon James Bartleson, 22; Martinez Tennell Lambert, 17; Vachon Ray Singleton, 20; Kentory Jamaal Watson Jr., 18; and Jayden Makhi Amy, 18. Their cases will be tried at a later date. Johnson’s trial moved forward first after he exercised his right to a speedy trial.

The case was prosecuted by members of the Gwinnett County Drug and Gang Task Force, with assistance from investigators and victim advocates. Prosecutors credited the Gwinnett County Police Department, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s Office for their work in bringing the case to trial.