Brothers admit to witness intimidation

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The Erie County District Attorney's Office says two brothers pleaded guilty to a number of felonies involving gun violence and witness intimidation. Nineteen-year-old Riyad Johnson and 20-year-old Moshaun Johnson, also known as Guns, pleaded guilty to the highest charges they could have been convicted of, had they gone to trial.

According to the DA's office, the brothers plotted to dissuade a key prosecution eyewitness from testifying against Riyad. Moshaun allegedly contacted the witness and said, "if my brother does time, I'll be poppin y'all."

At the time of the incident, Riyad was under indictment for second-degree attempted murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Moshaun was also under indictment for second-degree criminal possession of  weapon regarding a separate incident.

Riyad pleaded guilty as charged to second-degree attempted murder, second-degree criminal possession of weapon and witness tampering. He faces a maximum prison term of 29 years.

Moshaun pleaded guilty as charged to second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and witness tampering. He faces a maximum prison sentence of 19 years.

D.A. Frank Sedita issued the statement, "The Office of the Erie County District Attorney will continue to aggressively prosecute thugs who attempt to intimidate citizens from coming to court."