Four Former Milwaukee Hotel Workers Sentenced to Probation in D’Vontaye Mitchell Death Case

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 4, 2025

Milwaukee, WI – A Milwaukee judge has handed down sentences that avoid further prison time for four former hotel workers involved in the tragic death of D’Vontaye Mitchell, who died in June 2024 after being pinned down in a suffocating dogpile outside a Hyatt hotel. The sentencing concludes a high-profile case that drew uncomfortable comparisons to the 2020 death of George Floyd, sparking conversations about justice and accountability.

The case culminated in a series of hearings before Milwaukee County Circuit Judge David Swanson, who opted for a mixture of probation and credited jail time instead of extended incarceration for the accused.

Sentencing Details and Legal Outcomes

On Wednesday, Judge Swanson imposed sentences that reflect a careful balance between punishment and leniency for the four former hotel employees:

Todd Erickson, a former Hyatt security guard, was sentenced to two years in prison; however, the sentence was stayed and replaced with two years of probation.
Brandon Turner, another former security guard, received a one-year prison sentence stayed in favor of one year probation.
Former bellhop Herbert Williamson was sentenced to 10 days in jail, credited for time already served.
Devin Johnson-Carson, a former front desk worker, received a four-day jail sentence, also credited for the time served.

Attorney Craig Robert Johnson highlighted Johnson-Carson’s intent, stating that his client “was trying to protect hotel guests and staff and never intended to seriously injure Mitchell.” This perspective was a significant factor considered during sentencing.

Incident Overview and Investigation Findings

According to police investigations, D’Vontaye Mitchell ran into the Hyatt’s lobby in a distressed state and entered the women’s bathroom, reportedly trying to lock two women inside. Witnesses said Mitchell appeared to be fleeing from security guards.

Brandon Turner forcibly removed Mitchell from the bathroom, and along with a hotel guest, dragged him onto the driveway. Alongside Turner, Erickson, Williamson, and Johnson-Carson restrained Mitchell by pinning him to the ground for approximately eight to nine minutes, as hotel surveillance footage confirms.

Emergency responders arrived too late; Mitchell had ceased breathing, and a medical examiner later ruled his death a homicide caused by suffocation compounded by the toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine.

Comparisons to George Floyd Case and Community Impact

Mitchell’s death sparked immediate comparisons to the 2020 police killing of George Floyd, where excessive restraint led to widespread protests and a national conversation about racial injustice. Benjamin Crump, attorney for Mitchell’s family, remarked:

“The fact that D’Vontaye was held face down on the pavement for eight to nine minutes –– just like George Floyd –– is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for accountability and justice.”

The racial dynamics of the case were also noted: Mitchell was Black; both Turner, Williamson, and Johnson-Carson are Black; while Erickson is White.

Employment and Aftermath

All four men were subsequently fired from their positions at the Hyatt Regency, a hotel operated by Aimbridge Hospitality. In addition to the criminal proceedings, Mitchell’s family secured a confidential settlement with Hyatt.

Looking Forward: Questions of Justice and Accountability

The case raises ongoing questions about how accountability is served when individuals are restrained in such a violent manner, and how institutions respond to the tragic outcomes of such encounters. While the criminal justice system has delivered its verdict, many community members and activists continue to seek broader systemic changes.

For further information about the case, visit the original report by CBS News.

Key Facts Recap:

D’Vontaye Mitchell died in June 2024 after being restrained by four former hotel workers.
Judge David Swanson issued a mix of probation and credited jail time sentences, avoiding additional prison time.
Mitchell’s death was ruled a homicide due to suffocation and drug toxicity.
The case drew parallels to George Floyd’s death, highlighting issues of excessive restraint.
A confidential settlement was reached between Mitchell’s family and Hyatt.

What do you think about this sentencing decision? Have you followed cases like these that touch on accountability in restraint-related deaths? Share your thoughts in the comments below!