FORT WAYNE Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Shooting

In a sentencing hearing on Friday, a 19-year-old Fort Wayne man, Sheldon R. Johnson Jr., was sentenced to four years in prison for a shooting incident that occurred last year. The shooting left another man in a life-threatening condition. Allen Superior Court Judge David Zent initially handed down a five-year prison sentence but suspended one year as part of a plea deal. Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of battery resulting in serious bodily injury.

According to court records, Judge Zent expressed his intention to consider a placement modification for Johnson after his first year served in prison. Additionally, Johnson was given credit for the 156 days he had already served in the Allen County Jail.

The incident occurred on November 27, 2022, when Johnson, along with two other men, was walking to a gas station in a southeast side neighborhood. A heated argument ensued between Johnson and Jonquil Mendoza, resulting in a physical altercation. According to court documents, Mendoza punched Johnson in the face, prompting Johnson to retrieve a gun and fire two shots at Mendoza. Both individuals fled in different directions following the shooting.

Mendoza, who sustained life-threatening injuries, called emergency dispatchers for help. Unable to determine his exact location, Mendoza was found by medics and police in the area of Senate and Spatz avenues.

During an interview with Fort Wayne police investigators, Johnson admitted that Mendoza had disrespected him and punched him twice. Johnson confessed to pulling out a black handgun and firing two shots in Mendoza’s direction. As a result, Mendoza sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and leg.

Initially charged with a Level 3 felony count of aggravated battery, Johnson was formally charged with a Level 5 felony count of battery causing serious bodily injury by Allen County prosecutors.

During the sentencing hearing, Johnson was also served with a no-contact order, prohibiting him from contacting Mendoza.