Hartsfield Found Guilty In Shooting Of Jags' Collier

November 6, 2009 10:03 a.m. EST

Tyrone Romero Hartsfield was found guilty in the shooting of former Jaguar Richard Collier. Hartsfield was convicted of attempted first-degree murder and faces a life sentence.

Collier was shot six times and left paralyzed before the 2008 season.

"Things like this need to end," said Collier.

Hartsfield was accused of following Collier from a nightclub and trying to kill him.

Collier and a former teammate were ambushed outside of an apartment complex while they waited for two females.

Collier's left leg had to be amputated.

Prosecutors said the ambush took place because of retaliation.

 They claim Collier hit Hartsfield four months earlier and Hartsfield sought revenge.

Hartsfield argued he couldn't get a fair trail in the city of Jacksonville.

"It's wrong," he said. "I ain't the one who did this. All I ask for is a fair trial. Anywhere in the state of Florida."

His request for a venue change was denied. One of his attorneys said she still believes in her client.

"I can't honestly think of anything that we should have done differently," said Ann Finnell.

Prosecutors said Hartsfield had his dreams stolen. He joined the Jags as an undrafted rookie.

"He (Hartsfield) couldn't go toe to toe with him (Collier) like a man should. He had to get him from behind," "He couldn't even look him in the face when he shot him. He had a motive and he seized the opportunity," said Assistant State Attorney Bernie de la Rionda.

Cooper's sentencing is scheduled for next month.