Daphne, Ala. — Travis Lofton was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday after being convicted in November 2024 for the intentional murder of Jason Mallette, the Taziki’s Mediterranean Café manager, in June 2023.
Mallette’s family had an emotional moment during the court session as they spoke about their loss. Tabatha Middleton, Mallette’s ex-wife and the mother of one of his children, delivered a powerful victim impact statement, calling Lofton a “violent monster” who executed Mallette as he arrived at work. Middleton emphasized the “unimaginable grief” and “profound loss” her family now faces.
Lofton shot Mallette after being misled by false accusations from Lofton’s wife, Aerial Allen, who fabricated a story about Mallette sexually assaulting her. Lofton confronted Mallette at the restaurant, where video evidence presented during the trial showed him lying in wait for Mallette’s arrival.
Despite Lofton’s lack of remorse during the trial, he expressed hope for an appeal after the sentencing, stating, “I’m hoping we can appeal this and go to the Supreme Court and hopefully justice can be done for all.” However, Mallette’s family emphasized that their loss is permanent, stating, “We all got a life sentence.”
While Lofton could eventually be eligible for parole after serving at least 15 years, the impact of his actions will be felt by the Mallette family forever.
