23-year-old gets life for attempted murder

Jacksonville Sheriff's Office booking photo of Michael Johnson Jr.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 23-year-old Jacksonville man convicted last month on charges of attempted second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison.

Michael Johnson Jr. shot E.J. James in September 2010 after the two had an argument. James was trying to walk away from the confrontation when he was shot, prosecutors said.

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Johnson's prior criminal history includes convictions for burglary to a dwelling, grand theft of a motor vehicle, and fleeing and eluding a police officer.

"This sentence sends a clear message that gun violence will not be tolerated in our community," said Assistant State Attorney David Thompson.

Johnson was also sentenced to 15 years in prison for the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon charge.