Alimamy Fornah Sentenced to Life for Murder of Shontae Crawford
Published on October 04, 2024
ARLINGTON, VA: Today, after a lengthy sentencing hearing in which Shontae Crawford’s sister provided powerful victim impact testimony, Alimamy Fornah was sentenced to life in prison for murdering Shontae on June 19, 2023. (Note: This news release was updated on October 7, 2024 to correct the date, which was previously incorrectly stated as July)
Shontae suffered a brutal death after multiple, deep-cutting wounds to her neck. Her last moments were spent trying to escape and bleeding out alone in a hallway of the apartment building in which she lived. On June 13, 2024, Mr. Fornah was convicted by a jury for Shontae’s murder nearly a year earlier.
Today’s sentencing focused on the beauty of who Shontae was in life, as a stark contrast to how she died. Even though she suffered years of abuse from Mr. Fornah, she was a beloved sister, mother, and friend. She brightened every room and uplifted those around her in little moments like replicating TikTok dance moves and doing photoshoots in grocery stores. She was always surrounded by her loved ones but lived for her son, who carries a heart as big as hers.
“Trials and sentencing hearings can never bring back the people we cherish, but they can provide some closure for families and safety for the community. I know the feelings of loss have been overwhelming for Shontae’s family, particularly as they have had to relive their trauma throughout the court process. I am grateful to them for their enduring trust and support, to the ACPD for their thorough investigation and their professionalism throughout this case, and of course our internal team: Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Nassir Aboreden and Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Abhimanyu Mehta, who honored Shontae in his sentencing arguments; Victim Advocates Deena Ware, Lydia Hatcher, and Ada Lazo, who provided advocacy and support to Shontae’s family before, during, and after the trial; and our paralegals and support staff who provided immeasurable assistance. Our hearts go out to all of those who knew and loved Shontae – through them, the memory of her joy, vibrant personality, and deep love will endure.”