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2nd man sentenced to 60 years in prison for 2018 murder of pizza deliveryman

Jasean Dale (Provided Photo/Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department)

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A second man has been sentenced to 60 years in prison for his role in the August 2018 murder of a pizza delivery driver.

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office on June 16 announced Jasean Dale was convicted by a jury in the fatal robbery of Lavon Drake. He was found guilty on charges of murder, felony murder, and robbery resulting in serious bodily injury. Dale was sentenced Tuesday.

Drake was fatally shot after he was lured to a vacant home and forced inside while delivering a pizza in the 14400 block of Kristen Circle on Aug. 20, 2018. Drake worked as a manager for the pizza chain. He’d came in on his off day to deliver pizzas to help the company out.

Authorities say Drake reported to work on his day off to help with pizza deliveries.

Three men were charged in the case. Juwann Terry pleaded guilty to murder and robbery a year after Drake’s death. He was sentenced to 60 years in prison.

Jason Epeards, who is also charged with murder and robbery resulting in serious bodily injury, has a jury trial scheduled for Aug. 30.

Statement

“Lavon Drake was a good young man who led by example. He worked hard and was senselessly murdered while simply doing his job. My thoughts are with the Drake family as they continue to show dignity and grace while we work to bring them justice.”

Ryan Mears, Marion County prosecutor