Opening statements were made Friday in the murder trial of two New Bedford men. 31-Year-old Sharone Stafford was shot and killed in November of 2013.

According to The Standard Times, prosecutors say Stafford was targeted by rival drug dealers. Prosecutor Dan Walsh Friday said 27-year-old Hailton DaCosta hatched a plan to rob Stafford to send a message to others looking to get in on the drug trade.

DaCosta, along with three other men, allegedly drove to Winsor and Crapo Streets to stage a fake drug deal with the intent of robbing Stafford. Instead of just robbing him, Prosecutor Walsh says DaCosta shot and killed Stafford.

Also on trial with DaCosta is 30-year-old Antonio Rodrigues, Jr., who prosecutors say drove the car the night Stafford was killed.

DaCosta and Rodrigues are charged with murder, armed assault with intent to rob, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Two other men, 29-year-old Samir Baptista and 23-year-old Elito Mendes, will testify against the defendants in exchange for lesser sentences.

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