Otha Don Watkins III, a 43-year-old inmate from Cairo, Illinois, has been sentenced to an additional five years in federal prison. This sentence follows his guilty plea to charges of involuntary manslaughter and possessing contraband in prison.
Court documents reveal that in April 2023, Watkins was serving a 23-year sentence at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana. His prior convictions included aiding and abetting armed bank robbery, possession of a stolen firearm, and conspiracy to commit robbery. While incarcerated, Watkins acquired a piece of metal fashioned into a weapon known as a “prison shank.”
On April 14, 2023, Watkins engaged in an altercation with fellow inmate Carlos Shelton within Unit D-2 of the prison. Both men were armed with improvised shanks during the fight. Watkins fatally stabbed Shelton in the chest, causing severe injuries that led to Shelton’s death on the same day.
John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, commented on Watkins’ history of violent offenses: “Given Otha Watkins’ history of violent offenses… it’s evident that he should never be allowed to live outside federal custody again.” He praised the efforts of the FBI and federal prosecutors for bringing justice to this case.
A Bureau of Prisons spokesperson stated: “Today’s sentencing marks the conclusion of a senseless act of violence… The court’s decision affirms that such actions carry severe consequences.” The statement emphasized that acts of violence within federal prisons will face strict legal repercussions.
FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley highlighted the risks present even within secure environments: “This brutal killing is a reminder that violence can occur anywhere… we will continue to work to ensure those who commit violent acts while incarcerated are held fully accountable.”
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Bureau of Prisons. U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II imposed the sentence. Acting U.S. Attorney Childress also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath for prosecuting this case.
