Judge Sentences Man for Charlotte Wingstop Murder
Justin Jones received a 21 to 25-year prison sentence for the shooting death of 19-year-old Joelle Clesca.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Violence
A Charlotte judge sentenced Justin Jones to 21 to 25 years in prison following his guilty plea for the second-degree murder of Joelle Clesca. The incident took place at a Wingstop restaurant on Beatties Ford Road.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes a legal process that began after Jones shot Clesca once in the chest using a Glock 19. Prosecutors secured the conviction while dismissing an additional conspiracy charge against the defendant.
Justin Jones received a sentence of 21 to 25 years in prison for the murder of Joelle Clesca. He will receive credit for over one year of time already served in custody.
The players
Justin Jones
He is the individual convicted of second-degree murder for the shooting of Joelle Clesca.
Joelle Clesca
She was the 19-year-old victim who died after being shot at a Charlotte restaurant.
The details
Justin Jones entered the Wingstop on Beatties Ford Road and fired one shot into the chest of the 19-year-old victim. Evidence presented to the court included text and social media messages where Jones expressed his intent to commit violence.
Timeline
Joelle Clesca was killed at a restaurant in October 2025.
The court sentenced Justin Jones on October 27, 2026.
Legal Context
The sentence imposed on Justin Jones follows the framework established by North Carolina's Structured Sentencing Act, which dictates prison terms for felony convictions. This resolution adheres to standardized sentencing guidelines used for second-degree murder cases in the jurisdiction.
The conclusion of this case provides closure to the community following the violent incident on Beatties Ford Road. Residents should remain aware that the criminal justice process has been finalized for this specific crime.
The takeaway
This case highlights how digital evidence, including text and social media messages, serves as a critical component in prosecuting violent crimes. Authorities emphasize the importance of reporting threats to law enforcement before they escalate into physical acts.
Further reading
For more on public safety and regional legal updates, visit Violence.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wbtv.
