Clayton County Woman Sentenced to 25 Years After Jury Rejects Self-Defense Claim in Roommate Shooting

JONESBORO, Ga. – A Clayton County woman has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after a jury found her guilty of shooting her roommate during an argument over kitchen space, rejecting her claim that she acted in self-defense.

Clayton County District Attorney Tasha M. Mosley announced that a jury convicted Katisha Jackson of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

The charges stem from a July 29, 2022, shooting involving Jackson’s roommate, Keeland Caldwell.

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that the argument began over where Caldwell was placing his kitchen items in the apartment’s shared kitchen.

According to the District Attorney’s Office, the dispute escalated until Jackson shot Caldwell.

Jackson testified in her own defense, admitting she fired the gun but claiming she acted in self-defense.

Prosecutors argued the evidence did not support that claim. They told jurors that Caldwell never displayed a firearm, never physically struck Jackson and did not initiate the verbal confrontation that led to the shooting.

After hearing the evidence, the jury returned guilty verdicts on both charges.

Judge Aaron Mason, who presided over the trial, sentenced Jackson to 20 years in prison without the possibility of parole, followed by an additional five years.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Brianna Jordan, with Assistant District Attorney Sheila Francois serving as co-counsel. Investigator Angie Clements and Victim Advocate Kennedy Smith also assisted in the prosecution.

The trial began July 13 and concluded July 15, 2026.

“I want to recognize the diligence and professionalism of my team in securing justice for Mr. Caldwell,” District Attorney Mosley said in a statement. “While no verdict can undo the events of July 29, 2022, we hope this conviction offers his family a measure of peace as they continue to heal.”