NYC Man Sentenced to 26 Years to Life in Prison for Ex-Girlfriend’s Death

NEW YORK — A Manhattan man has been sentenced to 26 years to life in prison for the 2022 killing of his former girlfriend in Brooklyn, bringing a grim case to a close nearly four years after the crime.

Justin Williams, 27, was sentenced Wednesday in Brooklyn Supreme Court after being convicted in June of second-degree murder and several other offenses in connection with the death of D’Asia Johnson, 22.

Prosecutors said Williams killed Johnson inside her East New York apartment on August 21, 2022. He subsequently remained in the apartment for nearly a month while attempting to conceal what had happened.

Victim’s Family Had Been Searching for Her

Johnson’s family became increasingly concerned after she disappeared.

According to prosecutors, Williams attempted to make it appear that Johnson was still alive, including by impersonating her in communications with her workplace. He also allegedly used her financial benefits for his own expenses.

The case was eventually uncovered after building personnel became suspicious about Johnson’s prolonged absence and requested a welfare check. Police then discovered evidence of the killing inside the apartment.

History of Abuse

Prosecutors said Williams and Johnson had previously been in a relationship marked by repeated abuse.

Johnson was also protected by an order of protection that required Williams to stay away from her at the time of the killing, according to authorities.

The court ultimately found Williams guilty of multiple offenses, including murder, concealment of a human corpse, grand larceny, criminal impersonation and welfare fraud.

26 Years to Life

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said Johnson suffered extreme violence and accused Williams of showing a profound disregard for her life and dignity afterward.

Williams’ sentence means he will spend at least 26 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole, with the possibility of remaining incarcerated for life.

The sentencing brings a measure of legal resolution to a case that left Johnson’s family searching for answers for weeks and ultimately revealed a disturbing pattern of violence and deception.

For Johnson’s loved ones, however, the conclusion of the criminal case cannot undo the loss of a 22-year-old woman whose life was cut tragically short.