Man pleads guilty in 2022 Birmingham sidewalk shooting death

Roderick Jimelle Needham Jr. sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing Courtney Demond Mays

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:23pm

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A 26-year-old man has pleaded guilty to the 2022 shooting death of a 41-year-old man found dead on a sidewalk in north Birmingham. Roderick Jimelle Needham Jr. was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of Courtney Demond Mays.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing issues with gun violence and crime in Birmingham, which has struggled with high rates of homicides and other violent offenses in recent years. The guilty plea brings some closure to the victim's family, though the loss of life is still tragic.

The details

Police said the investigation showed that an altercation took place inside a home prior to shots being fired, leading to Mays' death on the sidewalk. Needham had a prior criminal record, including a robbery conviction in 2017 for which he served three years in prison before his probation was revoked.

  • The shooting occurred on May 5, 2022.
  • Needham pleaded guilty and was sentenced on January 27, 2026.

The players

Roderick Jimelle Needham Jr.

A 26-year-old man who pleaded guilty to the murder of Courtney Demond Mays.

Courtney Demond Mays

A 41-year-old man who was found dead on a Birmingham sidewalk after being shot.

Judge Stephen Wallace

The Jefferson County Circuit Court judge who presided over the case and sentenced Needham to 30 years in prison.

Charissa Henrich

The Deputy District Attorney who prosecuted the case.

Jennifer Hallie Wilson

The Deputy District Attorney who prosecuted the case.

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What’s next

Needham will be returned to the custody of the Alabama Department of Correction to serve his 30-year sentence.

The takeaway

While the guilty plea provides some closure, the tragic loss of life in this case underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and improve public safety in Birmingham neighborhoods.