Johnathan Black, 22, was sentenced last week to up to 30 years in state prison for shooting a man in the face during a “botched” robbery that took place in June of 2018. 

Black and co-defendant Jordan Jones, conspired to rip off one of his victims during the sale of an illegal gun but decided to rip off the victims when he discovered the victims also had  marijuna with the, authorities say. 

When the occupants attempted to drive off from the attempted robbery, Black chased the car, firing a round, screaming he wanted to kill everyone in the car.  

“This was not just a robbery, but an act of overt aggression,” said Deputy District Attorney Thomas C. Gannon.

Jurors convicted Black for the attempted killings, as well as robbery, aggravated assault and related offenses after a three-day trial in September. 

Judge Rea B. Boylan said Thursday that the progression of Black’s conduct during the incident showed his “entrenched criminal thinking.” “It’s only by chance this was not a third-degree murder case,” the judge said. In court for sentencing, 

Black maintained his innocence and declined to give a statement. “I don’t really like talking,” he said. “I feel like talking will get me in trouble.” 

Black’s co-defendant Jones, 19, pleaded guilty to his role in the incident and was sentenced to four to 10 years in state prison. 

Black will serve a minimum of 15 years in state prison. 

The case was investigated by Bristol Borough Police Department and prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Thomas C. Gannon.