State Attorney Ed Brodsky announced today that Carter Thomas Layne has been convicted of Manslaughter With A Firearm. The crime was committed on 3/8/24 and investigated by Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The crime carried a maximum possible sentence of 30 years in prison.

There was no minimum mandatory sentence applicable.

There was no sentencing enhancement applicable besides that charged for the use of the firearm during commission of the crime.

A sentencing hearing was held on 9/24/25, where the Court imposed a sentence of 20 years in state prison followed by 6 months of community control followed by 4.5 years of probation with various conditions.

According to the evidence, the defendant was at the gathering drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana throughout the day. Several times during the day and evening, the defendant was brandishing a revolver and even pointed it at others “dry firing” the weapon. He was repeatedly told to stop, but he did not. The final time he pointed the gun and pulled the trigger was at JM Feeney, who was struck and killed.

The lead prosecutor in the case, Assistant State Attorney Dickey Hough, commented, “this was a completely senseless and avoidable situation. It is our hope that this outcome brings some measure of justice to the Feeney family for the loss of their loved one, who was by all accounts an extraordinary individual and beloved member of the community.”

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Assistant State Attorney Dickey Hough in the Manatee County office at 941-747-3077.