Topeka Judge Sentences Du'Jontez Owens to Life in Prison
The sentencing follows the convictions of two men for the 2024 shooting death of Ricky Washington Jr.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Violence
A Shawnee County judge has sentenced Du'Jontez Owens to life in prison following his conviction on 20 criminal charges. The charges stemmed from the fatal shooting of Ricky Washington Jr. and the attempted murder of another individual in Topeka.
Why it matters
The sentence concludes a legal process regarding the violent shooting on Southwest Huntoon Street that left one person dead. The consecutive nature of the sentences reflects the severity of the charges brought against the defendants.
Du'Jontez Owens must serve at least 51 years and eight months before parole eligibility, with sentences for firearm discharge running consecutively. This follows the sentencing of Demari Owens on August 12, 2026, who faces 50 years before parole.
The players
Du'Jontez Owens
A man convicted on 20 criminal charges related to a fatal shooting in Topeka.
Demari Owens
A co-defendant who was previously sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the crimes.
Ricky Washington Jr.
The victim of the shooting who was declared dead at the scene by medical personnel.
The details
The proceedings addressed the incident at the 1200 block of Southwest Huntoon Street, where medical personnel pronounced Ricky Washington Jr. dead at the scene. A jury previously found both Du'Jontez Owens and Demari Owens guilty of charges related to the shooting and attempted murder.
Timeline
November 10, 2024: The fatal shooting occurs on Southwest Huntoon Street.
June 26, 2026: A jury finds Demari Owens guilty.
July 10, 2026: A jury convicts Du'Jontez Owens of 20 charges.
August 12, 2026: Demari Owens receives a life sentence in Shawnee County court.
Legal Context
This case follows the established precedent for sentencing in violent firearm crimes within Shawnee County. The resolution of this trial underscores the judicial response to incidents related to the 2024 Topeka shooting incident.
The conclusion of this trial brings closure to a violent incident that occurred within the community. Residents may find additional information regarding court proceedings through the official Shawnee County judicial records.
The takeaway
The sentencing of those involved in violent crimes is a critical component of maintaining legal accountability within the city. These outcomes serve as a reminder of the judicial system's role in addressing fatal firearm incidents.
Further reading
For more information on local safety, read the latest reports in Topeka Violence.
