206 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
Description
See any errors? Let us know!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.
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)
See any mistakes? Let us know!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










