A shootout in Burlington’s Old North End more than a year ago has resulted in a new federal indictment against suspects already facing state murder charges and other federal offenses.
Federal prosecutors say a “third superseding” indictment has been returned this week in connection with the investigation into drug dealing and the April 16, 2019, shooting death of 23-year-old Benzel Hampton on North Willard Street.
James “Mike” Felix, 37, Johnny “Sonny” Ford, Brandon “Baby Boy” Sanders, 19, and Lesine “Lexi” Woodson, 33, all of Orlando, Florida, were named in the latest indictment, the U.S. Attorney’s Office stated in a news release Thursday.
The new indictment charges all four for conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and conspiracy to commit a firearms offense.
In addition, Felix and Ford are charged in the recent indictment with being felons in possession of a firearm and using, carrying and discharging a firearm during a controlled substance offense.
The charges are similar to those brought in earlier indictments against the suspects, though charges regarding being a felon in possession of a firearm are new.
Felix, Ford, and Sanders each face state murder charges in the shooting death of Hampton.
According to court filings, Hampton and Woodson had been involved in drug activity, but a feud developed between the two.
“On April 16, 2019, after learning of a text message sent by Hampton, Woodson drove Felix, Ford and Sanders to confront Hampton at 235 North Willard Street in Burlington,” according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“A gun battle ensued and Hampton was shot at least six times with two separate firearms, leading to his death,” the release added. “The indictment alleges that Felix and Ford discharged these firearms.”
Woodson – a passenger in the car – had more than $8,600 of United States currency hidden under her clothing. This event led to a feud between Hampton and Woodson.
Woodson’s dispute with Hampton escalated and she brought James Felix and Johnny Ford to Vermont.
The third superseding indictment charges all four defendants with conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and conspiracy to commit a firearm offense. Felix and Ford are additionally charged with being felons in possession of a firearm and using, carrying and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a controlled substance offense.
