Search For Man Wanted In City Shooting
By: Danielle Krout
Updated: July 6, 2012
The 27-year old failed to show up for a court hearing Friday, someone posted 10% of his $75,000 bond earlier this week. Lawton is accused of shooting Cardell Clinton on June 25, 2012 outside of Edders Den in the city's Oakhurst neighborhood. It is believed that shot was heard by an officer on patrol in the area which led to a police chase and Lawton's arrest. While police were taking him into custody, a car driven by Elip Cheatham allegedly accelerated towards officers, when the car didn't stop officers opened fire killing Cheatham. Clinton and Hayward Gaines were in Cheatham's car.
State Police are handling the investigation; three city officers remain on paid leave until a determination is made as to whether or not the shooting was justified.
Callihan said Lawton is to be considered armed and dangerous. Lawton was to appear in court on 2010 drug charges.


