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Opening arguments begin in trial of man accused of murdering grandson of former Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson

Robert Shepard faces one count of aggravated murder, one count of murder, and two counts of felonious assault in the death of Frank Q. Jackson.

CLEVELAND — Opening arguments began on Wednesday morning in a trial for the 30-year-old man accused of killing the grandson of former Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.

Robert Shepard appeared in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday morning. He is accused of directing 24-year-old Frank Q. Jackson to a home where he was later shot and killed. That fatal shooting happened on September 19, 2021, outside of Cleveland's Heritage View Homes.

During opening arguments, former Cleveland Mayor Jackson was also in attendance. 

According to authorities, Jackson was dropped off by a third party near Sidaway Avenue and East 70th Street in Cleveland. Court documents state that Shepard "lured the victim to the area where he was shot by another unidentified individual," before fleeing the scene. Sources confirmed to 3News’ Lydia Esparra that investigators believe Jackson had been lured to the area by Shepard to pick up his dirt bike.

Shepard was arrested on October 27, near the intersection of East 46th Street and Central Avenue. He was indicted on four charges, including aggravated murder and felonious assault. 

Court documents show that Shepard has a lengthy criminal history with previous charges for assault, attempted aggravated burglary, carrying a concealed weapon, drug possession, and attempted failure to comply with an officer.

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