Criminal-turned-reform-advocate charged with murder

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
9 Mar 2024 15:59
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The New York police accuse Sheldon Johnson of killing and dismembering a man and hiding his organs in his home.

Sheldon Johnson accompanied by two New York police officers after being detained in his Bronx home on Thursday, March 7, 2024 (AFP)

Sheldon Johnson, a criminal justice reform advocate released from prison last year, has been arrested after a headless torso was found in a New York City apartment. Johnson, 48, faces a charge of second-degree murder.

The victim, identified as 44-year-old Collin Small, had an unspecified relationship with Johnson. Police sources suggest they may have had a falling out while both were incarcerated in Sing Sing prison.

Johnson, who served over two decades for a violent robbery, was released in May and worked as a counselor for at-risk youth through the Queens Defenders. Formerly imprisoned individuals often find employment in such roles.

Sheldon Johnson, a criminal justice reform advocate, emphasized rehabilitation over jail time. He appeared on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast in February to discuss his journey from prison to advocacy.

Collin Small's remains were discovered in his Bronx apartment after the building's superintendent requested a wellness check. Residents reported hearing gunshots and a plea for mercy from Small's apartment early Tuesday.

Johnson was present at Small's apartment when police arrived for a wellness check. He was detained while officers obtained a search warrant. Inside the apartment, police found Small's torso and one foot in a large bin. Small's other foot, along with his arms, legs, and head, were discovered in the freezer.

He told officers he was innocent while being taken in handcuffs, while the police accused him of murdering Smalls using a gun before dismembering him.

The man wound up arrested and charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon. He was sent to jail on Thursday.

Under New York law, he could be imprisoned for 25 years if convicted of murder.