Virginia Beach’s police chief says a teen would still be alive if Markal Cook was behind bars for his convictions in Norfolk. Norfolk’s top prosecutor disputes that.
NORFOLK, Va. — A day after a 19-year-old was charged with murdering 15-year-old Jeyani Upshur outside Mount Trashmore, Norfolk’s top prosecutor is disputing how Virginia Beach’s police chief characterized the suspect’s criminal record in the Mermaid City.
During a Thursday press conference announcing a second-degree murder charge against Markal Cook, 19, Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate used a PowerPoint presentation to bullet point the suspect’s 2023 convictions for four crimes in Norfolk.
Those crimes were obstructing and resisting arrest with force, trespassing and two counts of having a concealed weapon. According to Neudigate, Cook was given 12 months in prison on each charge, but all but several days were suspended.
“From experience, illegal weapon possession is the precursor to shooting violence,” Neudigate said. “Had Mr. …