Criminal justice advocate arrested after man's dismembered body found in freezer, plastic bin

NEW YORK (TCD) -- A convicted felon who became a criminal justice advocate was arrested this week after police reportedly found a headless body in the 44-year-old victim's apartment.

According to News 12 New York, on Tuesday, March 5, the superintendent of Collin Small's Summit Avenue apartment building reportedly contacted the New York Police Department and asked them to conduct a welfare check because he heard several gunshots.

WNBC-TV reports surveillance footage allegedly shows the suspect, Sheldon Johnson, walking in and out of Small's apartment several times. In some instances, he reportedly carried cleaning supplies and a large trash bag. According to The New York Times, a man on the video evidence changed outfits and wore different hats. On one occasion, he was seen wearing a wig.

Police arrived late Tuesday night and knocked on Small's apartment door. Johnson reportedly answered.

The New York Times reports that investigators obtained a warrant to search the unit, where, during the process, they discovered Small's torso and feet in a plastic bin. His head, arms, and legs were placed in the freezer. Small reportedly sustained at least one gunshot wound to the head.

Police arrested Johnson Thursday, March 7, on charges of murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon.

Johnson's criminal record spans several years. He recently served 25 years in prison after he was convicted of robbery and attempted murder while he was a top member of the Bloods gang. New York Department of Corrections' records show he was released in May 2023.

Following his release from prison, Johnson became a criminal justice reform advocate, worked for the Queens public defender's office, and even recently appeared on Joe Rogan's podcast.

News 12 New York reports a judge denied Johnson bail during his first court appearance Thursday night.

MORE:

• NYPD arrests, identifies suspect linked to human torso found in Highbridge apartment - News 12 New York
• Ex-con-turned-activist charged after headless torso found in NYC home: Sources - NBC New York
• Man Who Became Champion of Rehabilitation Is Charged With Murder - The New York Times
• New York Department of Corrections records