Gabriel Williams, 36, was found guilty of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, intimidation, possession of heroin, and unlawful possession of weapons while under disability, along with firearm specifications following a four day jury trial which was completed last September.

Williams was sentenced to 24 years in prison by Common Pleas Judge Robert Davidson in November.

Williams appealed his conviction and sentence to the Third District Court of Appeals in Lima. Williams claimed on appeal that the Judge improperly restricted cross-examination; that the prosecution improperly introduced evidence; that the Judge kept out certain evidence; that there was insufficient evidence to support the convictions; that his counsel was incompetent; and that his 24 year sentence was improper.

The Court of Appeals issued a 43 page decision Monday which unanimously rejected all of Williams’ arguments.

Williams was arrested by the Marion Police Department during the early morning hours of August 14, 2006, along with two co-defendants after fleeing from a home invasion at an Uncapher Ave. residence. Williams and his cohorts entered the residence, while armed with a gun and two knives. They tied up an adult female and demanded money and property from the victim.

Williams has remained in custody since his arrest. He is currently incarcerated at the North Central Correctional Institution in Marion. He will not be eligible for release until 2031.

Slagle requested a prison sentence of at least 20 years. Slagle pointed out that Williams was a repeat offender with multiple prior felony convictions and in this case, while armed with a gun, had the victim tied up and threatened to kill her if she did not provide him with money.

“We were confident that Williams’ trial was fairly conducted and his sentence was proper. We are pleased that the appellate court agreed,” Slagle stated.