Introduction
A LaGrange man, Joshua Wayne Nutt, also known as Joshua Wayne Bradley or A-1, has been sentenced to life imprisonment without parole after a Troup County jury convicted him of multiple charges related to a double murder in August 2021. The conviction came after a seven-day trial where Nutt was found guilty of two counts of malice murder, six counts of felony murder, among other charges. Judge N. Markett Baker sentenced Nutt to four life sentences plus an additional forty years without parole.
Details of the Crime
On August 7, 2021, Marcus Lee Caswell, Jr. and Travis Michael Lodato visited Nutt’s home to collect a debt. After missing Nutt at his home, the victims returned the following day on their motorcycles. Upon their arrival, Nutt shot both men, stole their belongings, and attempted to dispose of their bodies by dumping them into West Point Lake.
Investigation and Arrest
The bodies were discovered by local fishermen, leading to an extensive investigation by the Troup County Sheriff’s Office and the Coweta Judicial Circuit Attorney’s Office. During a search of Nutt’s home, authorities found the victims’ motorcycles and significant evidence of the crime. Nutt was apprehended after a chase, during which he was found in possession of items belonging to the victims.
Background and Sentencing
At the time of the murders, Nutt was on parole for previous felony convictions, including armed robbery and drug-related offenses. His association with the Ghostface Gangsters, a notorious gang, was also revealed during sentencing. The prosecution was led by Chief Assistant District Attorney Jack Winne, who emphasized the violent nature of Nutt’s actions and his criminal history in securing the life sentences.