Ohio – An Ohio man was sentenced last week to life in prison for the brutal murder of his parent’s former partner, 35-year-old Aviah. The sentencing took place on March 11, 2025, where the 46-year-old defendant, Branon, received a sentence that mandates he serve nearly 45 years before becoming eligible for parole. He was convicted of aggravated murder, murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, and weapons charges.
On June 7, 2024, the victim was found in a house, where the defendant arrived, shot her in the head, and left her for dead. Prosecutors stated that after firing the initial shot, he instructed his friend, the co-defendant, Pery, to finish the woman. The 59-year-old co-defendant then dragged the victim to the basement and shot her again, killing her. During the investigation process, authorities in Ohio discovered that he asked his co-defendant ‘is he with him or against him’ while holding a gun to his head.
The victim’s body was later discovered in a trash can on July 1, 2024. Though initially difficult to identify due to decomposition, forensic evidence and witness testimony linked both defendants to the crime. The 46-year-old man was arrested after an investigation that revealed he was involved in the fatal shooting, while his co-defendant, was also indicted for the crime.
The 59-year-old co-defendant was indicted on charges of aggravated murder, murder, kidnapping, and weapons possession. During the investigation, he admitted to firing the second fatal shot under the direction of the defendant. Pery’s role as a co-conspirator in the crime contributed to the severity of the charges against both men. He remains under indictment and is awaiting trial, facing a potential life sentence if convicted.
Throughout the trial, he maintained his innocence and claimed that the 59-year-old co-defendant was solely responsible for the crime. However, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including witness statements and forensic findings, that connected him to the murder. Prosecutor Mike referred to him as a stone-cold killer, emphasizing the cruelty of the crime.
Despite the defendant’s defense, the jury found him guilty of all charges. The sentencing was a moment of justice for the victim’s family and the community, as it closed a painful chapter. The investigation highlighted the importance of both forensic evidence and witness testimony in securing a conviction, even when the physical evidence was sparse.
Prosecutors were pleased with the outcome of the case, highlighting the thorough investigation conducted by law enforcement, despite challenges presented by witness testimony and the lack of physical evidence linking the defendant directly to the crime. “This case is a testament to our commitment to justice,” said Prosecutor Mike. “The brutal nature of this crime warranted the strong sentence delivered today.”
As for Pery, his trial is still pending, and he faces similar charges to those the 46-year-old man was convicted of. His potential sentence could mirror that of his accomplice if convicted, with life imprisonment as a likely outcome. According to the court documents, the killing stemmed from a falling out between the victim and the defendant’s father, with whom she had a relationship, and the victim stealing from the defendant, prosecutors said.
Featured Image – 46-year-old Branon | 59-year-old Pery
