Guilty Plea in Motel Shooting Death: Clyde Hawkins Sentenced to 30 Years for Murder of Diamond Ducksworth Graham
Justice Prevails as Hawkins Admits Guilt
January 30, 2024
Hinds County, Mississippi
In a stunning turn of events, Clyde Hawkins, a 76-year-old man, entered a guilty plea in connection with the tragic motel shooting death of 20-year-old Diamond Ducksworth Graham. The case, which was scheduled for trial on Monday, January 29, 2024, took an unexpected turn as Hawkins chose to accept responsibility for his actions, sparing the family and community the anguish of a trial.
The Heartbreaking Incident
The incident unfolded on January 4, 2022, at the Economy Inn on West Northside Drive in Jackson, Mississippi. Diamond Ducksworth Graham’s lifeless body was discovered in the motel’s parking lot, leaving a void in the hearts of her loved ones and sending shockwaves through the community. Law enforcement officials promptly initiated an investigation to uncover the truth behind this senseless tragedy.
As part of their diligent investigation, authorities zeroed in on Clyde Hawkins, a guest at the motel. Meticulously gathered evidence, including the murder weapon found in Hawkins’ vehicle and spent shell casings recovered from his pockets, painted a grim picture of the events leading up to the fatal shooting.
Forensic Findings Reveal Disturbing Details
Forensic analysis revealed harrowing details about the nature of the crime. According to Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens, the forensic evidence indicated that Diamond Ducksworth Graham was mercilessly shot seven times as she desperately tried to flee the motel room, her naked body bearing witness to the horrific ordeal she endured. The evidence spoke volumes, leaving no doubt about the brutality of the crime.
Guilty Plea Averts Trial, Brings Closure
As the trial date approached, Hawkins made the decision to change his plea to guilty, a move that spared the family and community the trauma of a trial. The court, upon accepting the guilty plea, sentenced Hawkins to 30 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). However, five years of the sentence were suspended, and Hawkins was granted five years of post-release supervision.
Seeking Solace Amidst Tragedy
The guilty plea and subsequent sentencing bring a sense of closure to the family and friends of Diamond Ducksworth Graham, who have been yearning for justice since her untimely demise. While no sentence can truly compensate for the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, the outcome of the case provides a measure of accountability and a step towards healing for those affected by this devastating event.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Healing
Clyde Hawkins’ guilty plea in the motel shooting death of Diamond Ducksworth Graham marks a significant chapter in this tragic story. It spares the family and community the trauma of a trial while holding Hawkins accountable for his actions. As Hawkins begins his sentence, the focus now shifts to the healing process and ensuring that justice is served in the memory of Diamond Ducksworth Graham.
While the pain of losing a loved one can never truly be erased, the guilty plea and sentencing bring a sense of closure and accountability. It is a step towards healing for the family, friends, and community who have been deeply affected by this tragedy. May Diamond Ducksworth Graham’s memory live on as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the need for justice.