A federal jury has found Larry J. Williams, Jr., a Columbus resident, guilty of murdering three individuals as part of a narcotics conspiracy. The verdict was delivered after a three-week trial presided over by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson.
Williams, 43, also known as “J Streets” and “J,” faced 16 charges in connection with the crimes committed in 2018. These included conspiracy to rob a local marijuana dealer, which led to the murder of Connor Reynolds, 23, from Grove City.
To conceal this crime, Williams subsequently murdered Henry Watson and Tera Pennington in August 2018. Both victims were residents of Columbus and had knowledge related to Reynolds's murder. Williams ordered the dismemberment and burial of their bodies to hide evidence.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Williams used a residence at 121 Stevens Ave. for drug trafficking activities involving fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Several overdoses occurred at this location.
In total, 13 defendants have been charged in this case. Williams faces multiple counts including conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, robbery, obstruction of justice, and possession of firearms linked to drug trafficking crimes.
Angie M. Salazar from Homeland Security Investigations Detroit stated: “We hope this verdict brings closure to the victims’ families and serves as a significant step towards justice for our Ohio communities.”
The case involved cooperation between various law enforcement agencies including the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and local police departments.
Williams is expected to receive a mandatory life sentence with formal sentencing determined at an upcoming court hearing.
Kenneth L. Parker from the U.S Attorney's Office announced today's verdict alongside other law enforcement officials who participated in bringing this case forward.