A simple hotel stay has turned into a full-blown crime scene straight out of a Hollywood thriller in Milwaukee. But this isn’t some scripted drama; it’s a real-life tragedy that’s left a man dead and four hotel employees facing serious charges. Buckle up, because this story is about to take you on a wild ride through the dark underbelly of hospitality gone wrong.
The Charges
Four Milwaukee hotel employees have been charged with felony murder in connection with the death of D’Vontaye Mitchell. The accused are Todd Erickson, Devin Johnson-Carson, Herbert Williamson, and Brandon Turner. If convicted, they could face up to 15 years and nine months in prison.
The incident occurred on June 30 at the Hyatt Hotel in Milwaukee. According to reports, Mitchell entered a women’s bathroom, which led to a confrontation with hotel staff. What happened next is nothing short of shocking.
The Incident
Mitchell was allegedly dragged out of the bathroom and restrained for 8-9 minutes. During this time, he showed clear signs of distress, pleaded for help, and had difficulty breathing.
The autopsy revealed that Mitchell was morbidly obese and had ingested cocaine and methamphetamine. However, the cause of death was determined to be “restraint asphyxia.” The county medical examiner stated that Mitchell might have survived if the employees had allowed him to turn onto his side.
The Aftermath
Surveillance video captured the details of the altercation, providing crucial evidence for the investigation. Aimbridge Hospitality, the hotel’s managing company, has since fired several employees involved and is cooperating with law enforcement.
“Our hearts are with Mr. Mitchell’s family and loved ones as this case moves forward,” – Aimbridge Hospitality statement
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Mitchell’s family, has criticized the delay in charging the employees. The incident has drawn comparisons to George Floyd’s 2020 death, reigniting discussions about excessive force and racial bias.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the potentially deadly consequences when situations escalate and proper protocols are not followed. The hospitality industry, and indeed society at large, must grapple with the critical importance of de-escalation techniques and the preservation of human life in all circumstances.
Sources:
- 4 hotel employees charged with being party to felony murder in connection with Milwaukee man’s death
- 4 hotel employees charged with being party to felony murder in connection with Black man’s death
- 4 hotel employees charged with being party to felony murder in connection with Black man’s death
- 4 hotel employees charged with being party to felony murder in connection with Black man’s death
More from Around the Web:
‘We need to speak louder’: Milwaukee Hotel Death Protest Outside of DA’s House:
D’Vontaye Mitchell’s Death Ruled a Homicide:
D’Vontaye Mitchell’s death has been ruled a homicide — a medical examiner's report concluded he died from restraint asphyxia. These findings demand immediate charges against the security officers involved. pic.twitter.com/6Z4yRfHfZl
— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 5, 2024
