HARRISBURG, PA — Dushawn Ellis, a 34-year-old resident of Berks County, was convicted on Wednesday, December 7, 2023, on charges related to intimidating a witness in a human trafficking case. The announcement came from Attorney General Michelle Henry.
Ellis was found guilty of declaring a $20,000 hit on the witness. Trial testimonies revealed that Ellis took steps to ensure the victim was aware of the threat to her life if she testified against him in the case.
A Berks County jury convicted Ellis of two felony counts of witness intimidation and one count of obstruction of justice. His sentencing is scheduled for February 26.
Attorney General Henry commented on the conviction, stating, “This defendant was willing to use any means necessary to make the charges against him go away. My office stands by this brave witness. This verdict ensures that the defendant will be held accountable for his threats and intimidations, and serves as a reminder that this type of conduct will not be tolerated in Pennsylvania.”
According to trial testimony, Ellis approached another inmate at the Berks County Prison who was acquainted with the witness, informing him of the $20,000 bounty. Ellis later used technology available to him inside the prison to video chat with this witness and relay the threat directly.
The investigation into the underlying human trafficking case is ongoing. The Pennsylvania State Police Organized Crime Unit conducted the investigation, and Senior Deputy Attorney General Erik Olsen prosecuted the case.
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