A Georgia man was recently convicted of murder after his own Instagram post revealed he had planned the crime. The case unfolded in Clayton County, where 24-year-old Shamel Crowder was found guilty of killing 19-year-old Geoffrey Canty in a tragic incident that happened three years ago.
The trial took place in Clayton County Superior Court, ending on December 20, exactly three years after the shooting that claimed Canty’s life. Crowder was sentenced on December 30 to life in prison without parole, plus an additional 25 years.
The events began on the afternoon of December 20, 2021, when Crowder met Canty in the parking lot of Canty’s workplace to sell him a gun. The deal was supposed to be straightforward—Canty would pay $300 for the weapon. But after receiving the money, Crowder turned the gun on Canty, shooting him three times in the stomach. Crowder kept the cash, took the gun back, and left Canty to die.
Two people who witnessed the crime were later arrested and tried as Crowder’s codefendants.
One of the most damning pieces of evidence against Crowder came from his own social media. Just minutes before the meeting, Crowder posted on Instagram, saying he planned to “pop and dip.” Prosecutors explained that this phrase suggested his intention to shoot Canty and then flee. This chilling post became a key part of the case, presented to the jury during the trial.
Crowder faced several charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during a felony. He was found guilty on all counts.
This case serves as a stark reminder of how actions, even those shared casually on social media, can have serious consequences. It also highlights the tragic loss of a young life and the devastating impact on the victim’s family and community in Clayton County.
