Gang Member Convicted of Two Home Invasions Against the Same Victim

Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Career Gang Unit obtained multiple convictions today against a Crips gang member following two home invasions in 2014 committed against the same victim at two separate residences. Kenneth Demarcus Williams, 27, was convicted of Aggravated Burglary, Facilitation of Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. After the jury returned their verdict, Judge Scott Green set the case for sentencing on September 8.

At trial, Assistant District Attorney TaKisha Fitzgerald explained to the jury that on June 13, 2014, Williams and other co-defendants broke a window in the bathroom of the victim’s house and entered the house, stealing a tablet. The victim arrived at home while the burglary was in progress causing the defendants to flee the scene. The victim reported the break-in to law enforcement and came to court to pursue the case. She also moved to a different residence where she installed a security surveillance system. On November 2, 2014, Knox County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Matt Sexton responded to a 911 call of a home invasion at the victim’s new residence. The victim stated her alarm system was tripped when Williams and two other men broke open the back door of her apartment. The men entered the apartment with one individual pointing a handgun up the stairwell toward the victim. Fearing for her safety and that of her one-year-old child, the victim fired her own handgun toward the intruders. Williams and the other two men fled the apartment but not without being recorded by the alarm system’s cameras.

“”I applaud the courage of this victim who would not allow herself to be intimidated,”” said DA Charme Allen.””Because of her courage and her willingness to testify, this dangerous offender will be off the streets for years to come.””

Because Williams was convicted of Aggravated Burglary and Aggravated Assault while acting in concert with others, the offenses are Class B felonies that carry a punishment from eight to twelve years in prison. Additionally, Williams must serve five years without the possibility of parole on top of his Class B felony sentence for Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony. At sentencing, prosecutors will seek an enhanced sentence due to Williams’ gang affiliation and prior felony criminal record.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.