Four hotel workers have been charged with felony murder in connection with the death of 43-year-old D’Vontaye Mitchell outside a downtown Milwaukee hotel on June 30. Mitchell was pinned to the ground for about eight to nine minutes outside the Hyatt Regency, resulting in his death from 'restraint asphyxia and toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine,' according to the Milwaukee County medical examiner’s office.
The defendants - security manager Todd Alan Erickson, front desk agent Devin W. Johnson-Carson, security guard Brandon LaDaniel Turner, and bellman Herbert T. Williamson - are facing charges for their involvement in the incident. The criminal complaints state that the defendants used force to hold Mitchell down, including striking him and pushing down on his back, shoulders, and arms.
The encounter unfolded as the use of force, particularly against people of color, remains under scrutiny following the murder of George Floyd. Mitchell's family attorney emphasized that his death was a result of the beating he received from the hotel workers.
If convicted, the defendants could face up to 15 years and nine months in prison. The incident, partially captured on video, shows Mitchell being held down and pleading for mercy. The video also reveals the involvement of other individuals, including a hotel guest and another worker who struck Mitchell with a broom handle.
After Mitchell became unresponsive, police arrived at the scene, but he was pronounced dead despite lifesaving efforts. Mitchell's family believes he was experiencing a mental health episode, and they attribute his death to excessive force used by the hotel employees.
The hotel management has taken action by terminating several employees involved in the incident. The case has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from Mitchell's family and the community.
