Man Sentenced in Charleston Murder Case to Appeal Conviction

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Man Sentenced in Charleston Murder Case to Appeal Conviction

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Melshaun Robinson, a former downtown Charleston bouncer who was found guilty of murder, first-degree assault and battery, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, is set to appeal his murder conviction.

The Incident

Robinson was working at the King Street Cabaret nightclub when he fatally shot 30-year-old Zabdiel Tinoco-Hernandez and injured Hernandez’s brother-in-law in a heated argument on April 25, 2021, according to the Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Investigators say Robinson accused one of the men of “perceived short-changing of a dancer and alleged inappropriate behavior”. The altercation then moved outside where it continued to escalate until it culminated in the violent shooting.

Details of the Confrontation

Security footage from the club depicted Robinson confronting the victims in the parking lot. He initially threatened them with a rock, prompting them to step out of their vehicle. As per prosecutors, Robinson then retrieved a gun from the club office and pursued the victims, the confrontation peaking with a fatal shooting.

The solicitor’s office shared that two of the shots hit Tinoco-Hernandez in the back and another in the rear of his arm. Despite his attempts to flee, Robinson continued firing, ultimately leading to Hernandez’s death. Meanwhile, his brother-in-law, who had also been a target in the attack, survived despite two bullet wounds and was later key in identifying Robinson at trial.

The defense argued that Robinson’s actions were rooted in self-defense, a claim that was ultimately dismissed by the court.

Verdict and Appeal

After a four-day trial, Judge Deadra L. Jefferson sentenced Robinson to 33 years in prison. Despite this, Robinson maintains his innocence and is set to challenge his conviction in an appeal.

The trial has ignited local debate surrounding employee policies at nightlife establishments and the accessibility of firearms. Community members and local authorities alike use this case as a grim example to push for further regulations to ensure public safety.

The appeal process is starting in court and the attention it has captured promises to make this an ongoing high-profile case in the Charleston community. As of now, further details about the case or the appeal have not been released.