Four Hotel Staff Charged in Fatal Restraint Incident in Milwaukee
Four Hyatt Regency employees face murder charges in Milwaukee for the death of D'Vontaye Mitchell during a restraint incident. The case highlights concerns over mental health crisis response and use of force.
In a significant legal development, the Milwaukee County district attorney's office has brought murder charges against four individuals in connection with a fatal incident at a downtown hotel. The case, which unfolded approximately 13 months ago, has raised questions about crisis management and use of force in the hospitality industry.
The incident occurred at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, a property managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, one of the world's largest hotel management companies. On June 30, 2023, D'Vontaye Mitchell, a 43-year-old man believed by his family to have been experiencing a mental health episode, was forcibly removed from the hotel premises.
The four accused, identified as Devin W Johnson-Carson (23), Brandon LaDaniel Turner (35), Herbert T Williamson (53), and Todd Alan Erickson (60), allegedly dragged Mitchell from the hotel and pinned him face-down on the concrete outside. This action tragically resulted in Mitchell's death, which the Milwaukee County medical examiner's office ruled a homicide caused by restraint asphyxia, compounded by the effects of cocaine and methamphetamine.
This case highlights the critical need for proper training in crisis management and de-escalation techniques within the hospitality industry. Milwaukee, known for its rich history in labor movements and workers' rights advocacy, now faces a challenging conversation about employee training and mental health crisis response.
The incident has also brought attention to the broader issue of mental health services in Milwaukee. The city has been working on initiatives to improve mental health services and crisis response, recognizing the importance of appropriate interventions in public spaces.
As the legal proceedings unfold in the Milwaukee County Circuit Court, this case may set important precedents for how similar situations are handled in the future. The charges against the four former hotel employees serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of improper use of force, especially in situations involving individuals in mental distress.
"We have terminated the employment of several individuals involved in this tragic incident. We are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation and are committed to reviewing and enhancing our training protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future."
This case continues to develop, with further updates expected as the legal process progresses. It serves as a somber reminder of the complex challenges faced by both hospitality workers and individuals experiencing mental health crises in public spaces.
