NORFOLK, Va. — An 18-year-old Norfolk man was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading no contest to robbing a 16-year-old at gunpoint—taking his phone, gold chain, and sneakers, which he was still wearing when police caught him.
Chortez Demarie Smith was sentenced on March 7 after admitting to the September 17, 2023, robbery in the Estabrook neighborhood near Krick Street and Kennon Avenue. Smith and three other armed individuals confronted the teenage victim, demanding his belongings under the threat of violence. The victim handed over his sneakers, smartphone, hoodie, and other personal items before the group drove away.
A witness helped the victim call 911 and provided descriptions of the suspects and their vehicle. Investigators identified the car from a doorbell camera and traced the stolen Air Jordan sneakers using a serial number on the shoebox.
Later that day, Norfolk Police spotted the suspects’ vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The driver refused to pull over, leading to a crash at Grandy Avenue and Tait Terrace. Three suspects fled, but police caught Smith—who was still wearing the stolen sneakers.
Smith was initially charged with armed robbery and using a firearm in the commission of a felony. He later accepted a plea deal, agreeing to plead no contest to armed robbery in exchange for the dismissal of the firearm charge. Judge Jamilah D. LeCruise sentenced him to two years in prison, with an additional three years suspended, provided he completes probation and maintains good behavior upon release.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney M. Colston Jones, with Norfolk Police Detective Cody W. Morgan leading the investigation