Judge Rules Teen Will Be Tried as Adult in Death of 13-Year-Old Ryland Calvert

Judge Rules Teen Will Be Tried as Adult in Death of 13-Year-Old Ryland Calvert

FLORENCE, Ala. — A Lauderdale County judge has ruled that Cameron Phinizee, a teenager indicted for his role in the death of 13-year-old Ryland Calvert, will be tried as an adult.

The decision, announced Tuesday, comes after Phinizee requested youthful offender status following his July indictment for felony murder. Prosecutors say Phinizee and Calvert planned a robbery in March, during which Calvert was fatally shot at the Southern Oaks Village Apartments in Florence.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Calvert’s family members gave emotional testimony, urging the court to hold Phinizee accountable. “Because of his actions, Ryland didn’t return home,” said Calvert’s grandmother, Shari Riley. His great aunt, Glory Michael, echoed that sentiment, adding, “He made an adult decision that day and should be held accountable as an adult.”

District Attorney Chris Connelly argued Phinizee’s behavior fit that of an adult engaged in a dangerous crime, while defense attorney Tony Hughes insisted the teen had no criminal history beyond minor traffic citations. Supporters testified that Phinizee was “a kid who made a mistake” and deserved a chance at rehabilitation under youthful offender protections.

A Lauderdale County grand jury previously declined to charge the shooter, ruling the act was self-defense. However, jurors found Phinizee legally responsible for Calvert’s death.

With the court’s denial of youthful offender status, Phinizee now faces trial as an adult on felony murder charges. If convicted, he could face significant prison time.