Robert Beatah (Photo Courtesy MCSD)
The sentencing of Robert Bateah took place today.
Bateah, who was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter and employing a firearm in the commission of a felony in the death of Kevin Hudson in South Pittsburg in April of 2022.
Bateah and Hudson were business partners and owned the former Dragging Canoe Coffee shop in South Pittsburg.
The verdict was handed down on June 13, 2025 and Bateah was immediately taken into custody. His request for a mistrial was denied. He was also denied the chance to “get his affairs in order” before his sentencing.
At his sentencing today, Bateah was given the maximum of 12 years that the charges allow.
Additionally, he faces new charges for having contraband in jail after authorities found he had a piece of concrete hidden in his sock.
He will be back in court in November to face those charges.
