“I urge the public to pay attention to what is occurring in their courthouse.”

Today, Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph T. Deters announced the indictment of Lonnell Anderson (DOB 9/12/72) for the murder of Derek Smith. Anderson is charged with one count of Aggravated Murder (SF), one count of Murder (SF), and one count of Having Weapons While Under Disability (F3). If convicted on all counts, he faces the maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

On October 8, 2021, Anderson entered the patio of Brandy’s Bar in Roselawn by jumping the fence. After entering the patio, he observed the victim, Derek Smith, sitting at a table with his friend. Anderson approached the victim from behind, pulled a firearm, and shot the victim twice in the head. It is believed Smith and Anderson did not know each other prior to this incident.

At the time of this incident, Anderson was under indictment for Having Weapons Under Disability. He was on the street after posting a $4,000 bond at 10% ($400).

Prosecutor Joseph T. Deters commented, “This is exactly what I have been warning about. It is happening with alarming frequency throughout our community.

Violent criminals, especially felons in possession of firearms, are a serious danger to this community. People should not have to live in fear of coming upon a defendant who should have never been released from jail in the first place.

The public needs to wake up to what is happening at their courthouse. This victim was executed in the middle of a crowded bar simply because of his race. And, the worst part is, this murder was completely preventable.

What happens in these courts profoundly impacts the livability of our city. Many times, it results in this type of tragedy.”