After confessing to a crime, the accused murderer of Clovi's mother pleads not guilty in court

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — After confessing to police that he shot his former girlfriend, 21-year-old Tavion Tapscott pleaded not guilty in court on Wednesday and denied any wrongdoing.

Tapscott is accused of killing 21-year-old Breaja Jones, the mother of his 2-year-old daughter.

“For him to do this to take my daughter's life and leave my precious little granddaughter without a mother and without a father is terrible,” said Tracie Walker, the victim's mother.

According to police, Jones was shot in her Clovis home while several family members were present to witness. According to court documents, Tapscott stopped by to pick up some items when an argument ensued that resulted in gunfire.

RELATED: Woman killed when shots fired in Clovis home, suspect arrested

Back in April, Tapscott was charged with domestic violence, was on probation and had an order of protection against him when Jones was killed. ABC30 Legal Analyst Tony Capozzi has seen far too many similar cases that ended in death.

“The unfortunate thing is that there is no way to actually enforce the injunction. It is just a piece of paper and once it is violated it can be very serious, as was the case in this particular case,” says Capozzi.

Tensions were high in the Fresno County courtroom Wednesday morning with both families in attendance. Tapscott's family were escorted by officers but claimed James' family was threatening them.

Capozzi says the facts so far make a pretty strong case, but there are several ways the defense can approach it.

“Did something happen before he got to the house?” Was there any communication between the victim and him that would have caused trouble? Did he do this in the heat of passion? Which means it's manslaughter and no longer first-degree murder,” says Capozzi.

A key factor in the case, Capozzi says, is the fact that Tapscott fled the scene before returning and turning himself in to police.

“If you run from the scene and are in court, the judge will tell the jury. If you run from this crime, you can be sure that the jury will find this man guilty. He knew what he was doing. He knew.” “It was wrong. That’s why he ran,” Capozzi said.

Breaja's family relives the terrible day every time in court. Although it may be difficult if the case goes to trial, Capozzi recommends the family testify.

“Every time the case is sad, every time they come to court and it keeps coming back. “It’s just very emotional for the victims in this case,” Capozzi said.

Tapscott could face 25 years to life in prison, but Capozzi says it could be more, considering his criminal history and other charges such as child endangerment.

If you are a victim of domestic violence or know someone who has been a victim of domestic violence, help is available 24/7. In Fresno County, call the Marjaree Mason Center at (559) 233-4357. For all other locations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

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