Attorney appointed for Turner’s appeal in Lorenzen Wright case

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A new attorney will represent Billy Ray Turner, the man found guilty two years ago of killing Memphis basketball star Lorenzen Wright, for a post-conviction petition.

Turner received a life sentence, but the 53-year-old filed the petition claiming ineffective counsel with his last attorney.

“Good morning, sir,” Turner said to Judge Lee Coffee, the same judge in the same courtroom where he was sentenced to life in lockup in 2022.

Turner’s newly appointed attorney Ernest Beasley says going over Turner’s hand-written, pro se petition is the first step. A pro se petition is one filed without counsel.

However, everything Turner filed may not be considered in a revised version.

“He cannot file issues that he doesn’t think that he can prevail on, or legitimate issues and he also can’t file issues that may have been addressed at trial,” Judge Coffee said.

Judge Coffee told Turner this hearing must take place in just a matter of months, so time really is of the essence.  Turner’s defense attorney said there is a lot to be done, but there’s not a lot of time.

Before things wrapped up Thursday, the judge advised Turner it’s in his best interest to remain silent.

“I just have one question — ” Turner said before the judge cut him off.

“Before you ask that question,” Coffee said, “hold on one second because I have no idea what it’s going to be and it’s not a good idea to ask questions without talking to your lawyer.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.