Louisville Man Sentenced to Over 20 Years in Federal Prison for Fatal Carjacking That Claimed Teen’s Life
Louisville, KY– Today, a Louisville man was sentenced to 20 years and 5 months in federal prison for a carjacking that resulted in the death of a teenage motorist. Michael Dewitt, 31, pleaded guilty to federal charges of carjacking resulting in death, marking the conclusion of a tragic case that has left the Louisville community in mourning.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, and Shelby County Sheriff Mark Moore.
The Crime: A Carjacking Turned Deadly
According to court documents, Dewitt committed a carjacking at gunpoint on March 1, 2021, stealing a 2011 Ford F350 from its owner in Simpsonville, Kentucky. While fleeing in the stolen truck, Dewitt drove recklessly and collided with another vehicle on Dixie Highway in Louisville. The crash claimed the life of a 17-year-old motorist, Madelynn Troutt, a high school senior and cheerleader with a bright future ahead.
Toxicology reports revealed that Dewitt had controlled substances in his system at the time of the crash, further compounding the tragedy. After the collision, Dewitt attempted to flee the scene but was detained by bystanders until law enforcement arrived.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Dewitt was sentenced to 20 years and 5 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Notably, there is no parole in the federal system, meaning Dewitt will serve the majority of his sentence behind bars.
The case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Bonar and Mac Shannon prosecuted the case, ensuring justice was served for Madelynn and her family.
A Community in Mourning
Madelynn Troutt’s death has left an indelible mark on the Louisville community. Described as kind, loving, and ambitious, she had been accepted into Bellarmine University to study nursing. Her family established the Live Like Madelynn Foundation to honor her memory and support others in need, as well as a memorial scholarship at Bellarmine University.
“Madelynn was the light of our lives,” said her mother, Marcie Troutt. “While this sentencing brings some closure, our grief will always remain. We hope this case serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of violent crime and impaired driving.”
Broader Implications: Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, a nationwide program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and the communities they serve. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy to strengthen PSN, focusing on building trust, supporting community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
Madelynn’s Law and Bail Reform
The tragedy also led to significant legislative changes in Kentucky. House Bill 5, known as Madelynn’s Law, was passed as part of the Safer Kentucky Act. This law restricts charitable bail organizations, such as The Bail Project, from posting bail of $5,000 or more. Dewitt had been released on a $5,000 bond just a week before the fatal crash, despite his history of drug addiction and prior arrests.
Final Thoughs
The sentencing of Michael Dewitt brings a measure of justice to a case that has deeply affected the Louisville community. While the legal proceedings have concluded, the pain of Madelynn’s loss remains. Her legacy lives on through the foundation and scholarship established in her name, serving as a beacon of hope and kindness.
This case underscores the importance of accountability, the need for systemic changes in the criminal justice system, and the devastating impact of violent crime on families and communities.
