Violent crime wave ends with life sentences for three Newport News men responsible for armed robberies and murders across Virginia

Newport News, Virginia – Three men from Newport News have been sentenced to life in federal prison after being convicted of a series of violent crimes that included five murders, multiple shootings, armed robberies, car thefts, and high-speed police chases. The convictions and sentencing mark the end of an investigation into a months-long crime spree that left several victims dead and many others in fear.

A Pattern of Violence and Robbery

Court records and trial evidence revealed that from January to November 2017, Ronzel Monte Dixie, also known as “Bone” or “Bizzy,” 31; Kwaimain Shy’de Redmon, also known as “Kwa,” 30; and Meko Montez Brown Jr., also known as “Gangsta” or “9-Ball,” 26, engaged in numerous violent crimes. The group targeted businesses, drug dealers, convenience stores, and even a correctional officer, leaving a trail of violence across Newport News, Hampton, and Chesapeake.

Armed with stolen firearms, including a .22 caliber Uzi-style gun and a Ruger P95 9mm pistol, the men carried out at least seven shootings, five of which resulted in fatalities. Their robberies ranged from cellphone stores to gas stations, and they frequently brandished or fired their weapons during the attacks.

A Trail of Deadly Attacks

Among the most heinous acts committed by the group was the execution-style killing of a man outside Hoss’s Deli in Newport News on October 16, 2017. After following their target from the bar, Dixie fired from a moving vehicle, hitting the man. Once he collapsed, Dixie shot him again while he lay defenseless in the street before robbing his wallet.

That same night, the group stormed a Happy Shopper convenience store in Hampton, demanding money. During the robbery, they shot the store owner in the face and executed an employee by firing two bullets into the back of his head while he was lying in the parking lot.

The violence escalated in November 2017 when Dixie, Brown, and another accomplice shot and killed a man before attempting to rob a correctional officer just minutes later. Dixie later bragged about wanting “10 bodies to his name.”

On November 10, 2017, the group stole a Cadillac in Newport News. When Brown crashed into another vehicle and the driver followed him, Brown responded by shooting the driver, killing him instantly. Later that night, he attempted another robbery but was met with return fire from the intended victim. Dixie, in an act of senseless violence, later used the same firearm to murder a homeless man while boasting, “My gun does not jam.”

Final Sentences and Convictions

After being convicted by a federal jury, all three men received severe sentences for their crimes:

• Ronzel Monte Dixie was sentenced to five consecutive life sentences, plus an additional 30 years. His charges included conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, multiple counts of armed robbery, firearm offenses, and use of a firearm resulting in death.
• Kwaimain Shy’de Redmon received life in prison plus 57 years for robbery conspiracy, brandishing firearms during violent crimes, possessing firearms as a convicted felon, and use of a firearm resulting in death.
• Meko Montez Brown Jr. was sentenced to life in prison plus 54 years for his role in multiple armed robberies, firearm offenses, and obstruction of justice.

The convictions bring closure to a community that was terrorized by the group’s violent spree. Law enforcement officials emphasized that these sentences serve as a strong message that violent crime will not be tolerated, and those who commit such atrocities will face the full weight of the law.