The Case
On January 15, 2019, Brianna N. Dotson (19) of Newark used a social media app to lure an unsuspecting man, Jim Jenkins, to her home. When he entered the house, he was physically assaulted and robbed at gunpoint by Dotson’s boyfriend and three teenage boys. After the violent altercation, the four men dragged Jenkins out of the house and tried to force him into a vehicle. When Jenkins continued to resist, the group was forced to flee the scene. According to the assistant prosecutor, Jenkins sustained a right orbital blow out fracture and needed to be hospitalized for his injuries.
The Sentencing
On April 23, 2019, Dotson, our client, pleaded guilty to one count aggravated robbery and one count kidnapping, both first-degree felonies, and felonious assault, a second-degree felony. While she was expected to receive 30+ years in prison, we were able to reduce the sentence to nine years with five years of post-released control.
To learn more about Dotson and this case, Michaela Sumner of the Newark Advocate turned to Dotson’s attorney, our very own Zachuary T. Meranda of The Meranda Law Firm LTD. In her article, Sumner explains how Attorney Meranda “said it was a series of poor decisions that led his client before the court. He added there’s a similar case pending in Muskingum County and from his understanding, the state and defense will present a joint recommendation of seven years in prison. Meranda said Dotson’s actions will take a lifelong toll on her and she’s shown remorse for her actions. He asked Judge Thomas Marcelain to consider merging some of the charges when imposing sentencing.”
The article also sheds some light on our client’s character, quoting the apology she read to the court and the Mr. Jenkins: “I’m sure you’ve heard the saying being in the wrong place at the wrong time. To me, that sounds like an excuse, an excuse that tries to point accountability elsewhere. I truly believe that God has a plan for all of us, but in no way, shape or form am I blaming God for putting me in this situation. I made my own choices.”
Schedule a Consultation Today
Contact the Columbus criminal defense lawyers at The Meranda Law Firm LTD if you’re facing felony charges for assault, theft, or arson. Our trial-tested legal team has a comprehensive understanding of Ohio’s criminal justice system and can use this knowledge to protect your rights and best interests.
Contact The Meranda Law Firm LTD at (614) 707-4239 to schedule a consultation.