by DeWitt, New York – A New York man has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the brutal kidnapping and torture of a former friend, following harrowing testimony from the victim that detailed months of abuse. The case has drawn attention for the extreme violence inflicted and the victim’s resourcefulness in escaping.
Shah Powell, 36, was convicted last month on charges of kidnapping and torture, stemming from an incident on September 24, 2023, in DeWitt, New York. The victim, Jhomiel Brown, testified in court about the ordeal that left him physically and emotionally scarred.
Victim Recalls Brutal Ordeal
Brown described being held in a shed and subjected to repeated acts of violence. According to court records and reporting by Syracuse.com, Powell allegedly:
- Beat Brown with metal poles
- Bit him and burned him with cigarettes
- Duct-taped his wrists to his ankles while unconscious
- Pulled out his two front teeth with pliers
In a desperate act of survival, Brown said he used one of his extracted teeth to saw through the duct tape, ultimately freeing himself and escaping.
“It was a grotesque moment of necessity,” Brown said in court.
Powell’s Defense and Court Proceedings
Powell testified in his own defense, claiming the injuries resulted from a fistfight over a drug deal. Prosecutors argued that Powell lied under oath to downplay the severity of his actions.
Before sentencing, prosecutors highlighted Powell’s lack of remorse:
“He is a man who was not at all prepared to accept what he did to another human being.”
Upon hearing the guilty verdict, Powell reportedly punched a wall, displaying further anger and instability.
Plea Offer and Sentence
Powell had previously rejected a 10-year plea deal, choosing to go to trial. His attorneys asked the judge to consider this when imposing a sentence, but the judge rejected the argument.
“This sentence is not punishing Mr. Powell for going to trial. It is punishing Mr. Powell for the completely barbaric assault on Mr. Brown,” the judge said.
Powell was ultimately sentenced to 50 years in state prison, ensuring he will remain incarcerated for decades.
Community and Legal Context
The case underscores the serious consequences of violent crimes involving kidnapping and torture. Experts note that such extreme assaults often leave long-lasting trauma for victims, both physically and psychologically. Law enforcement and courts continue to emphasize the importance of holding perpetrators fully accountable to protect public safety and deter similar crimes.
Conclusion
Shah Powell’s conviction and 50-year sentence reflect the severity of the heinous assault on Jhomiel Brown. The case also highlights the courage of victims in testifying and the judicial system’s role in ensuring justice for survivors of violent crime.
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