Gionni Sellers found guilty in death of 3-year-old Xavier Johnson
Jurors convicted Sellers of murder in the second degree with depraved indifference and manslaughter after deliberating for about one hour following closing arguments in Orange County Court.
More Stories
A jury found Gionni Sellers guilty Friday in the death of 3-year-old Xavier Johnson, delivering a verdict in a case that dates back to the summer of 2022.
Jurors convicted Sellers of murder in the second degree with depraved indifference and manslaughter after deliberating for about one hour following closing arguments in Orange County Court.
During the trial, prosecutors laid out a detailed timeline of the final week of Xavier’s life, arguing the toddler was fatally beaten over the course of several days while home sick from day care and left in Sellers’ care as his mother worked. Prosecutors said Sellers was dating the child’s mother but was not Xavier’s father.
Jurors were shown surveillance video from the apartment complex where the family lived, which prosecutors said documented who entered and exited the building and the apartment during that final week. According to prosecutors, the video showed that only Sellers and the child’s mother were with Xavier inside the apartment during that time.
The jury also heard about disturbing Google searches found on Sellers’ phone, including searches related to hurting babies, shaking a toddler and head trauma. Prosecutors said those searches were made on days that corresponded with Xavier’s worsening medical condition.
Prosecutors also presented text messages sent by Sellers to a friend during that same period, which they argued revealed frustration with the relationship and resentment toward caring for the toddler.
Medical testimony detailed the injuries that caused Xavier’s death, including trauma consistent with repeated blunt force injuries. Jurors also heard from police, investigators and family members over the course of the trial.
The defense did not call any witnesses, and Sellers did not testify.
After the verdict, members of Xavier’s family spoke outside court, describing a mix of relief, grief and the long road ahead.
“A lot of healing,” said Xavier’s grandfather, Norman Wilson. “Continued healing, counseling and working through it together as a team, as a unit, to give us the strength to move on.”
Xavier’s aunt, Maria Wilson, said the verdict brought accountability after years of waiting.
“Justice for Xavier was served,” she said. “The monster is going to be put away.”
She later added that the outcome brought peace to the family.
“Justice has finally been served. The truth finally came out,” Wilson said. “And you know what — I know Xavier is smiling down. What’s done in the dark will always come to light.”
Sellers’ attorney declined to comment after the verdict was read.
Sellers remains in custody and was remanded without bail. He faces 25 years to life in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for March 10.
