Tuesday, July 23, 2024

PONTIAC, Mich. - On Monday, July 22, 2024, an Oakland County jury convicted Malcolm Otis Draper Jr. on charges brought by the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office, including Second Degree Murder and Felony Firearm.

Oakland County Prosecutor KAREN D. McDONALD charged Draper with Murder and Felony Firearm on December 5, 2023. These charges were in connection with an incident that occurred on December 2, 2023, in Auburn Hills. The victim, a 47-year-old artist and resident of Auburn Hills, was doing some painting work for the ten 24-year-old Draper. Draper went to the victim's apartment and the two got into an argument about paint supplies which turned physical. While on top of the victim, Draper shot the victim in the neck, took the paint supplies, and left the scene.

After a three-day trial, twelve jurors deliberated for a day and a half before reaching their unanimous verdict. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Rob Novy led the trial team for the Prosecutor's Office.

"This was a senseless killing over a petty dispute," stated Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. "While this verdict does not bring back the life of the victim, I hope that it brings some peace to the victim's family and loved ones."

Draper will remain at the Oakland County Jail until sentencing, which is set for September 4, 2024, at 2:00 pm before Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren.

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