Walls man pleads guilty to second-degree murder in 2023 case

Photo: Jaheem Cunningham (DeSoto County Jail photo)

July 16 – The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office announced today that 21- year-old Jaheem Cunningham of Walls was sentenced to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty Monday in DeSoto County Court to one count of second-degree murder.  

According to the District Attorney’s Office, Cunningham intentionally shot his cousin while lying on the couch of his home, after a verbal altercation. The incident took place on March 16, 2023.

After shooting his cousin, Cunningham then tried to conceal the body, the pistol, and the victim’s car by dumping them in Memphis.  Jail information indicates he was booked into the DeSoto County Jail the following day.  

“Jaheem Cunningham’s admission of guilt and the severe sentence imposed underscore the severity of his crime,” District Attorney Matthew Barton said on Tuesday. “Yesterday’s result sends a clear message that violent acts in DeSoto County will not go unpunished.” 

Cunningham will serve a full 40-year sentence without the possibility of early release. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Drew Willcutt, and the investigation was led by the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department.