Convicted killer collapses hearing verdict

MUSKEGON, Mich. -- Outbursts, anger and outrage in a Muskegon County courtroom Thursday following a guilty verdict for the man accused of shooting and killing a motorcyclist in June.
Robert Gee appeared to have a medical episode, collapsing and having to be dragged out of the courtroom after learning he'll soon be sentenced for murder.
“The state of Michigan have proven each of these counts, open murder, felony firearm, felon in possession of weapons and the second felony firearm count, beyond a reasonable doubt,” Judge Timothy Hicks announced.
That was followed by blood curdling screams carrying on for several minutes and heard even through the closed courtroom door by those supporting the now convicted killer.
“This was a very tragic loss. Jake was a wonderful man. He will be missed by many people,” friend Dennis Falcon said of the 26-year-old victim.
In a bench trial, Hicks ruled Robert Gee shot out a car window on June 26, 2014, killing Jake Rameau, who was riding his motorcycle.
“Thank you, Jesus, for bringing this justice,” Jake’s mom, Jeannie Rameau, said.
The decision came after testimony from the others inside the car who said Gee pulled the trigger -- men who also expressed extreme fear of retaliation.
Gee put his head down on the table as the judge read his decision, then appeared to pass out in his chair and eventually had to be dragged out of the courtroom.
He was brought back in but the outbursts continued as more of his supporters left the courtroom in anger. When Gee finally left he turned to Rameau’s family, saying, “Sorry ‘bout ya’ll’s loss but I didn’t do that ----.”
For the Rameau family, Thursday provided long awaited closure.
“It’s been a long eight months and I think now maybe Jake can rest in peace and start watching over his family and his friends,” Jeannie said.
Gee will be sentenced April 3 in Muskegon.