Photo: slobo / E+ / Getty Images
A former corrections officer, Jonah Levi, was found guilty of manslaughter on Wednesday (April 1) in the fatal beating of inmate Messiah Nantwi at Mid-State Correctional Facility in Utica, New York. The jury also convicted Levi of gang assault and conspiracy but acquitted him of second-degree murder. Levi now faces up to 25 years in prison.
The incident occurred on March 1, 2025, during a wildcat strike by officers, which led to the deployment of National Guard members to maintain order. Levi was part of an emergency response team called to assist after Nantwi became uncooperative during a headcount. According to prosecutors, Levi and other officers beat Nantwi, resulting in massive head trauma and other injuries that led to his death.
District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick emphasized the severity of Levi's actions, stating, "Stomp on someone’s head, you’re not trying to get their attention.” Levi’s attorney, Lewis G. Spicer, argued that Levi did not use deadly force, but the jury found otherwise.
Nantwi's father, Patterson Nantwi, expressed his pain and hope for justice, stating, "No one should have to fear losing their life at the hands of those who are supposed to care for them." He has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the state Department of Corrections and the involved officers.
Levi's sentencing is scheduled for May 27. Meanwhile, other officers involved have pleaded guilty to lesser charges, and additional trials are set for May and June for those facing similar accusations.