Judge Sentences Convicted Murderer to 45 years

By D.C. Witness Staff - September 25, 2018
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

A DC Superior Court judge sentenced a murder defendant to 45 years in prison. 

On April 5, a jury convicted co-defendants Michael Tyrone Height and James Young of felony murder while armed for their roles in a robbery gone wrong that resulted in the death of 38-year-old Willard Shelton on the 2500 block of Pomeroy Road, SE in 2014. Height’s co-defendant was also sentenced to 45 years in June. Following Height’s release, he is expected to serve five years on supervised release.

“I apologize to the victim and family; my issue is that I’m innocent, and I apologize for my outburst,” Height told the victim’s family Sept. 21, referring to his reaction after receiving the guilty verdict.

The duo was also convicted of second-degree murder while armed, armed robbery, first-degree burglary while armed, tampering with evidence, obstruction of justice, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior felony. 

Height also has multiple firearm felonies dating back to 2010 in both the District and Prince George’s County, Md.

After the sentencing, the decedent’s family created an uproar, taunting the defendant and his family. The confrontation forced U.S. Marshals to create a barrier between the families.