Citrus County, FL — 37-year-old Dwann Demetrius Ross Jr. was sentenced today to life in prison after being found guilty last month of second-degree murder with a firearm in the death of 33-year-old Traske C. Johnson.
The sentencing was announced by the Office of the State Attorney, Fifth Judicial Circuit. Chief Assistant State Attorney Walter Forgie stated, “Today’s life sentence ensures this defendant will never again have the opportunity to harm another innocent person. While no sentence can undo the pain caused by this senseless murder, this outcome delivers justice and holds the defendant fully accountable for taking a life.”
The case stems from a shooting on May 28, 2024, at Colonial Plaza in Inverness, Florida. Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of a shooting and found Johnson in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Ross was identified on scene and detained by deputies. He claimed self-defense, alleging Johnson was the aggressor. The investigation revealed that both men operated separate businesses in the plaza and had engaged in a brief physical altercation. During the confrontation, Ross retrieved a handgun and shot Johnson several times.
Further investigation showed a heated text exchange between Ross and Johnson prior to the incident. Ross was upset after Johnson told a female companion that Ross was romantically involved with multiple women. Evidence from messages and witness testimony supported this account. Ross was arrested and charged following the investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Blake Shore and Kevin Davis.
SOURCE: Fifth Judicial Circuit of Florida
