Providence Man Sentenced For Role In Murder Of Local Barber

PROVIDENCE, RI — A Providence man was sentenced Monday to 28 years in state prison after prosecutors proved he was involved in the killing of a local barber in 2014.

Superior Court Justice Robert Krause sentenced Evan Watson, 34, after he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of a firearm without a license in connection to the death of Yusef A'Vant, 42, of East Providence.

Watson pleaded guilty after a co-defendant, Thomas Mosely, 39, was convicted in February 2020 for his role in the murder. Prosecutors said Mosely was the one who shot-and-killed A'Vant. He is currently serving a life sentence.

"These senseless acts of gun violence cause immeasurable pain and suffering to victims and their families," Attorney General Peter Neronha said. "Yusef A'Vant's family has lived with his loss for nearly 10 years now. I am grateful that this defendant has been held accountable for his role in Yusef’s murder, and hope this sentencing brings some measure of peace to his family. I commend the East Providence police and the entire investigative and prosecution team for their work on this complex case."

During the trial, prosecutors proved that on April 13, 2014, Watson provided the gun and drove Mosely to the barbershop where the victim worked. According to witness testimony, Mosley entered the barbershop holding a silver revolver and shot A'Vant.

Prosecutors said Watson was the get-away driver for Mosely after the shooting. First responders rushed the victim to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries there.

"The East Providence Police Department works tirelessly to bring justice to those who commit terrible acts of gun violence," East Providence Police Chief Christopher Francesconi said. "I hope this sentencing helps the victim’s family to continue to heal."

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