New York City, New York – A former prisoner turned criminal justice reform advocate, Sheldon Johnson, 48, has been arrested on a charge of second-degree murder after a headless torso was discovered in a New York City apartment. The victim, identified as 44-year-old Collin Small, was found dismembered in a gruesome crime scene.
Johnson, who had spent over two decades behind bars for a violent robbery, was released from prison in May and had been working as a counselor for at-risk youth through the Queens Defenders. He advocated for rehabilitation over incarceration for individuals accused of crimes, sharing his story on various platforms, including a podcast appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience.
The arrest of Johnson came after police were alerted by the superintendent of Small’s Bronx apartment building. Residents reported hearing gunshots and pleas for help coming from Small’s apartment. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Johnson in the apartment and subsequently discovered Small’s remains in a bin and freezer.
Authorities believe that Johnson shot Small and dismembered his body, leading to the murder charge. Despite Johnson’s claims of innocence, he now faces charges of murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon. This shocking turn of events has left many questioning Johnson’s past and the nature of his advocacy work.
Johnson’s troubled history, including past involvement in a street gang and a criminal conviction for attempted murder and robbery, has raised concerns about his credibility as a reformed individual advocating for criminal justice reform. The investigation into the murder case continues as authorities piece together the events leading to Small’s tragic death and Johnson’s alleged involvement.
The Queens Defenders, where Johnson worked as a counselor, has declined to comment on his arrest, distancing themselves from the unfolding scandal. If convicted of murder, Johnson could face additional years in prison under New York law. The disturbing case highlights the complexities of criminal justice reform and the challenges of reintegrating former prisoners back into society.
As the story unfolds, more details may emerge about Johnson’s past and the circumstances surrounding Small’s murder. The community awaits justice for the victim and answers to the questions raised by this shocking crime in the heart of New York City.