A Delaware man convicted of a brutal, multi‑state crime spree has been handed a 75‑year federal prison sentence.
Sentencing Details
Tonnaire McNair‑Matthews, 26, received a total of 900 months—equivalent to 75 years—in federal prison. The sentence covers six offenses: kidnapping, carjacking, robbery, and related firearms violations. The ruling follows his conviction on all counts after a July 2024 trial.
The Crime Spree
McNair‑Matthews conspired with David Hinson (23), Michael Caldwell (21), and Mahkiya Powell (20). The group used a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee to rear‑end unsuspecting drivers, robbing them when they exited to inspect their vehicles. After three failed attempts, McNair‑Matthews rear‑ended one victim’s car, abducted a woman at gunpoint, and forced her back into her own vehicle.
During the drive from Delaware into Pennsylvania, he demanded the victim’s bank‑card PIN, forced her to disrobe, and “digitally penetrated her against her will.” He then stopped the vehicle, forcibly raped her at gunpoint, and abandoned her in Pennsylvania. McNair‑Matthews returned her car to Delaware, used her stolen cards and PIN to withdraw money from ATMs, and later supplied the victim’s financial information and the firearm to Hinson, Powell, and Caldwell.
Police Pursuit and Capture
After changing clothes, the four men met at a Wilmington gas station where law enforcement located them. McNair‑Matthews and Powell fled, sparking a high‑speed chase in the stolen Jeep. Although they temporarily evaded police, McNair‑Matthews was found three days later after fleeing to Maryland.
Official Statement
Julianne E. Murray, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, said in a news release: “This was a calculated, predatory attack that shattered an innocent woman’s sense of safety. The Court’s sentence delivers justice for a survivor who showed extraordinary courage. Moreover, it sends a clear message that those who terrorize our communities with violence, intimidation, and exploitation will be pursued, prosecuted, and held fully accountable. Finally, I commend the vigilant work of the FBI, the Delaware State Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police for swiftly bringing the defendant to justice.”
Key Takeaways
- McNair‑Matthews sentenced to 75 years for kidnapping, robbery, and firearms offenses.
- The crime involved a stolen Jeep, a victim’s abduction, forced rape, and financial theft across Delaware and Pennsylvania.
- Law enforcement pursued the suspects, capturing McNair‑Matthews after a high‑speed chase and a three‑day evasion.
The sentencing underscores the federal court’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for violent, predatory crimes that span state lines.
