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Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Career Gang Unit obtained multiple convictions against
two gang members who robbed a wheelchair-bound family member.
Byron Edwin Hartshaw, 34, and Gary Lee Emory, 37, were convicted of Aggravated Robbery and
Aggravated Burglary. The jury also found that Hartshaw is a member of the Vice Lords criminal
street gang and that Emory is a member of the Gangster Disciples. Judge Steve Sword
set the case for sentencing on July 13 where both men face between fifteen and twenty-seven
years in prison.
At trial, Assistant District Attorneys Phil Morton and TaKisha Fitzgerald explained to
the jury that on October 1, 2016, Hartshaw and Emory went to the Morningside Apartments.
The pair entered the apartment of Hartshaw’s uncle, who is a double-amputee, knocked him
out of his wheelchair, held a gun to his head, and demanded money. Hartshaw and Emory beat
the victim, took his wallet, and fled the scene.
Knoxville Police Department Investigator Mike Washam was able to gather evidence leading
to this conviction, including a surveillance video of the two celebrating after robbing
and beating a disabled family member.
“These brazen criminals targeted who they thought would be a vulnerable victim,” said
DA Charme Allen, “but the bravery of this victim showed that this community is not going
to yield to the violence and intimidation used by street gangs.”
These animals have no morals. No conscience.
They have no purpose in society. They belong in hell.