CRIME
In a significant development in a tragic case, Michael Anthony Small of Buffalo Junction has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the death of Mahalia Townes. The plea was entered in Halifax County Circuit Court on Friday, marking a pivotal moment three years after the crime occurred.
Judge William Watson Jr. sentenced Small to an active prison term of 30 years for the murder charge, in addition to one year for assault and battery of a family member, to be served consecutively. This sentence was part of a plea agreement with prosecutors, avoiding a potential life sentence had the case gone to trial.
Halifax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Tracy Quackenbush Martin, who led the prosecution, noted that the plea agreement was reached after thorough discussions with Townes' family and law enforcement, all of whom expressed support for the resolution.
The tragic incident unfolded on August 24, 2021, when police discovered the body of 26-year-old Mahalia Townes in a first-floor room of the Super 8 motel in South Boston. Evidence presented during the proceedings indicated that Small had smothered Townes to death following an argument, with injuries to her mouth and face suggesting she had struggled during the assault. Testimony from the state medical examiner's office would have indicated that it took several minutes for Townes to succumb.
Following the murder, Small fled the scene in Townes' car, heading towards North Carolina. The case highlights the grave issues surrounding domestic violence and the impact on victims' families and communities.
For further updates on this case and other news, stay tuned to Star News.
Judge William Watson Jr. sentenced Small to an active prison term of 30 years for the murder charge, in addition to one year for assault and battery of a family member, to be served consecutively. This sentence was part of a plea agreement with prosecutors, avoiding a potential life sentence had the case gone to trial.
Halifax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Tracy Quackenbush Martin, who led the prosecution, noted that the plea agreement was reached after thorough discussions with Townes' family and law enforcement, all of whom expressed support for the resolution.
The tragic incident unfolded on August 24, 2021, when police discovered the body of 26-year-old Mahalia Townes in a first-floor room of the Super 8 motel in South Boston. Evidence presented during the proceedings indicated that Small had smothered Townes to death following an argument, with injuries to her mouth and face suggesting she had struggled during the assault. Testimony from the state medical examiner's office would have indicated that it took several minutes for Townes to succumb.
Following the murder, Small fled the scene in Townes' car, heading towards North Carolina. The case highlights the grave issues surrounding domestic violence and the impact on victims' families and communities.
For further updates on this case and other news, stay tuned to Star News.
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