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Description
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Syvasky Lafayette Poyner: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Early Life

Syvasky Lafayette Poyner was born on April 7, 1956, in Newport News, Virginia. He had a troubled childhood, marked by frequent run-ins with the law. His mother, a deeply religious woman, passed away in 1980. Poyner's father, William E. Johnson, only met him during his murder trial.

Criminal Activities

Poyner's criminal activities began at a young age, with multiple arrests for theft and other offenses. As an adult, he continued his criminal behavior, including forgery, burglary, and auto theft. He served nearly three years in prison for forgery and burglary charges in 1981.

The Murders

In a span of just 11 days, from January 23 to February 2, 1984, Poyner committed a series of brutal murders in Virginia. His victims were:
  • Joyce Baldwin, 45, a beauty salon proprietor, killed on January 23, 1984, in Hampton, Virginia.
  • Clara Louise Paulett, a motel manager, and Chestine Brooks, 43, a maid, killed on January 30, 1984, in Williamsburg, Virginia.
  • Vicki Ripple, 17, an ice cream parlor clerk, killed on January 31, 1984, in Newport News, Virginia.
  • Carolyn Hedrick, a candy bar saleswoman, killed on February 2, 1984, in Newport News, Virginia.
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Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (4)
  • Joyce Baldwin Age: (45), Date of Death: 1984-01-23
  •     ...View 3 additional victims
    Links to Additional Sources (5)
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    Killer's Details

    Syvasky Lafayette

    Poyner

    April 7, 1956 Newport News, Virginia, United States

    March 18, 1993 (aged 36) Jarratt, Virginia, United States

    Executed by electric chair

    Male

    Black

    Capital murder (x5), Robbery, Burglary, Forgery

    Death

    5

    January 23 - February 2, 1984

    Virginia

    February 4, 1984

    Greensville Correctional Center

    07/03/2025