Darren Dawson, Clinton Township, Michigan man accused of holding 58 year old woman hostage for 6 months in a closet over a drug debt. Suspect is alleged to have tortured victim, stolen her Social Security money and food stamps, claims the suspect’s attorney disputes.
A Michigan man is accused of having held a 58 year old woman hostage and torturing her for six months over a drug debt.
Darren John Dawson, 34 of Clinton Township allegedly held the victim against her will in a closet in his apartment from November 2023 to April. During this time, Dawson tortured the woman along with stealing her Social Security money and food stamps.
According to an August 8 press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, Dawson was charged with torture, unlawful imprisonment, and larceny by conversion of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000. He could be sentenced to life in prison if he is found guilty of torture. Dawson appeared in court for his arraignment, and he received a bond of $1 million.
Dawson remains held in the Macomb County Jail and will have to wear a GPS monitor if released. He also must not contact the victim or possess any firearms. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Aug. 20.
In a statement, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido stated, ‘The victim endured unimaginable suffering in what can only be described as a living nightmare. Our office is committed to seeking justice for her, and we will pursue every avenue to ensure this individual is held fully accountable for the alleged crimes committed.’
Addressing the allegations against their client, the suspect’s defense attorney said the victim’s story didn’t match up with the facts gathered according to Macomb Daily.
‘When we go to court, you’re going to find out the real facts are not accurate or true,’ Randall Upshaw of Lathrup Village said according to the outlet.
Upshaw stressed the woman’s credibility was weak.
‘We have many neighbors who are willing to speak out on Mr. Dawson’s behalf. She claims to be held in a closet, but we have people who have seen her walking in and out of the apartment on her own during that time,’ he said.
Dawson is back in court on Aug. 20 for a probable cause hearing.
