By Michael Copley
Staff writer

Many residents of Powhatan county have expressed pain and anger after the June 24 shooting that took the life of 18-year-old Tahliek Taliaferro and critically wounded 15-year-old Courtney Jones.

Now, two weeks after that incident, the parents of one of the suspects report that they have been receiving threats.

The Sheriff’s office confirmed Monday that threats have been made, but could not comment on the details of the ongoing investigation.

Attorney Jason Moore represents Joseph Parrish, left, the 17-year-old who was thought at one time to have been the triggerman in the shooting.

“It’s been a hectic week in general,” said Moore Tuesday. “Anything that Joey may or may not have done should not be a reflection on his parents.”

Joey Parrish and the other two suspects in the murder, Ethan Parrish, 24, and Stephanie Reynolds, 19, are due back in court August 27.

Moore said in a statement released July 2 that, contrary to statements made by Commonwealth’s Attorney Bob Beasley, his client was not the shooter in the June 24 incident.

Moore said Beasley made his statement based on the facts that were available at the time, but that more information has come to light since then.

Concerning threats that have been directed towards Parrish’s family, Moore said that people should avoid making judgments until they hear the facts of the case themselves.

“The media and public should avoid speculation, and allow the criminal justice system to run its course,” said Moore.  “Judgment in this matter should be withheld until the investigation is completed and all parties have exercised their rights under the criminal justice system.”

Moore was appointed as Parrish’s attorney by the court on June 30. He previously represented the teen in a juvenile court matter.

It was also determined June 30 that Parrish will be tried as an adult on first degree murder and malicious wounding charges.

Editor Roslyn Ryan contributed to this story