County Attorney Graham comments on Starts Right Here verdict

Statement from County Attorney Kimberly Graham on the acquittal of Bravon Tukes:

“As always, we appreciate the jury’s service. At the same time, we respectfully disagree with their assessment of the evidence. We believe the evidence was clear that Mr. Tukes conspired with fellow gang member Preston Walls for at least a month before the killings. Mr. Tukes aided Mr. Walls by meeting him a half-mile from the crime scene and driving Mr. Walls away from the area,” Graham said.

“Regardless of the verdicts, this has been and will always be a horrific tragedy. We continue to be heartbroken for our community, and we continue to grieve with the families.”

On Jan. 23, 2023, Mr. Walls killed Rashad Carr, 16, and Gionni Dameron, 18, at Starts Right Here, an alternative school program at 455 S.W. Fifth St. He also shot Will “Keeps” Holmes, Starts Right Here president and founder, who suffered injuries to his hip and hand.

Mr. Walls was convicted on Sept. 14 of second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, and assault causing serious injury. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 8.

Mr. Tukes was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count each of attempted murder, willful injury, and criminal gang participation.

The Polk County Attorney’s Office thanks the work of lead investigator Detective Jeffrey George and others at the Des Moines Police Department.