Cayvon Wells, a 21-year-old man from Toledo, Ohio, was fatally shot on May 15, 2022, while in his car in a central Toledo alley. The incident occurred in the 2200 block of Isherwood, and police were alerted to the scene by a Shotspotter alert. Wells was treated on the scene and transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Three suspects were indicted in connection with Wells' death.
Byron Cleveland, then 19 years old, was charged with murder and participation in a criminal gang. Cleveland was already in custody for the killing of 10-year-old Damia Ezell earlier that year. Javell Mulligan-Giles, 22, was also charged with murder and participation in a criminal gang. Stephaun Gaston, 28, faced charges of participation in a criminal gang.
In the legal proceedings that followed, Mulligan-Giles entered an Alford plea to the charge of involuntary manslaughter with firearm specification and participation in criminal gang activity. This plea allowed him to be found guilty without admitting guilt, acknowledging that there was enough evidence to convict him. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Cleveland pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges, receiving a 39-year sentence. Gaston was sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in the gang-related aspects of the crime.
The case highlighted the ongoing issues of gang violence and gun crime in Toledo, leading to increased efforts by local law enforcement to address these problems and prevent further tragedies.
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