Michael Branham
A man police say has been involved in several gang-related shootings is facing a lengthy state prison sentence after a jury in Criminal Court found him guilty in connection with a March 10, 2011, robbery at Emma Wheeler Homes.
Michael Branham, though he is only 25, has already served two stints in federal prison.
Prosecutor David Schmidt said Branham faces 8-12 years at 100 percent on the aggravated robbery conviction. The sentencing range is 6-10 years for aggravated burglary, aggravated assault and coercion of a witness. He faces a consecutive six years for use of a firearm in commission of a felony.
Judge Barry Steelman will set the sentence July 16.
The case was also prosecuted by Lance Pope.
The jury deliberated about five hours after hearing proof that began on Tuesday.
Witnesses said Branham and another man burst into a residence with guns and demanded money. They got away with from $150-$200 and a small bag of marijuana.
The other man has not been identified.
While a police investigator was at the scene, Branham called Regika Tillery to warn her not to call police. Ms. Tillery put the call on speaker phone and the detective listened in, then got on the phone himself with Branham.