Harlem Man Turned Criminal Justice Advocate Charged with Murder

A Harlem man who made waves advocating for criminal justice reform found himself on the wrong side of the law, as he was charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon by New York police. Sheldon Johnson Jr., 48, was taken into custody after police discovered a gruesome scene in his Bronx apartment during a wellness check.


A Harlem man who made waves advocating for criminal justice reform found himself on the wrong side of the law, as he was charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon by New York police. Sheldon Johnson Jr., 48, was taken into custody after police discovered a gruesome scene in his Bronx apartment during a wellness check.

Shocking Discovery in Bronx Apartment


Neighbors reported hearing gunshots coming from Johnson's apartment, followed by desperate pleas for mercy. When police arrived, they found Colin Small, 44, dead in the apartment. The relationship between Johnson and Small remains unclear, but sources suggest tensions dating back to their time in Sing Sing prison.

The investigation took a dark turn when police found Small's remains dismembered and stored in various places in the apartment, including a freezer. Johnson, who spent 25 years in prison before his release last year, had been working as a counselor for at-risk youth with the Queens Defenders organization.

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From Advocate to Accused


Johnson's transformation from a high-ranking gang member to a vocal advocate for change seemed like a success story. He appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience to share his journey and discuss his commitment to turning his life around. However, the recent charges have cast a shadow over his redemption arc.

Despite his past, Johnson's actions have left many shocked and disappointed. Civil rights attorney Josh Dubin, who once praised Johnson as a "miracle," now faces the harsh reality of his alleged involvement in a brutal crime.

The case serves as a stark reminder that redemption is not always guaranteed, and the past can come back to haunt even those who strive for change.

For more updates on this developing story, continue reading at The Daily Beast.