A Bucks County man has been found guilty but mentally ill of third-degree murder in the 2021 death of Helena Johnson. The verdict was delivered by Luzerne County Judge Michael T. Vough after a two-day trial. Michael Sarmiento, aged 40, was convicted for the killing that occurred at a Hazle Township motel.
The incident took place on June 6, 2021, when Johnson, a Massachusetts resident, was discovered dead in a motel room she shared with Sarmiento. Testimonies during the trial revealed that Johnson died from blunt force trauma resulting from a beating.
Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the conviction and emphasized the determination of investigators and prosecutors to achieve justice for Johnson. "This defendant callously took the life of Ms. Johnson, then attempted to avoid accountability," Sunday stated. He added that he hopes the verdict offers some peace to those who loved and missed her.
Sarmiento is scheduled for sentencing on May 1 and will receive mental health treatment during his incarceration due to the guilty but mentally ill verdict.
Pennsylvania State Police charged Sarmiento following Johnson's death at Red Carpet Inn on North Church Street. Evidence presented included surveillance footage showing both individuals entering their room together on June 4, 2021, with Sarmiento leaving alone two hours later and returning about 15 hours later before calling emergency services.
A forensic pathologist testified that Johnson had been struck at least ten times and showed signs of strangulation. The prosecution team consisted of Chief Deputy Attorney General Brian Zarallo and Deputy Attorney General Rachael Coleman.