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Thick case files detail Sylvester Lewis` criminal history…dating back to age 12
Thick case files detail Sylvester Lewis` criminal history...dating back to age 12
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- 18-year-old Sylvester Lewis is one of two suspects in custody in connection with the shooting of 10-year-old Sierra Guyton. Guyton was shot and seriously injured as she played on a playground near 28th and Clarke on May 21st. She was just feet from her home. When Lewis was arrested, Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn said he is a convicted felon -- who has been arrested 15 times in his young life. FOX6 News has researched Lewis' lengthy juvenile criminal record -- included in a thick case file.
Each of the case files relating to Lewis' juvenile criminal record are about two inches thick -- and detail a number of crimes.
Lewis' criminal record began when he was about 12 years old -- and police say he's been arrested 15 times since then.
Lewis' criminal history is something that angered Chief Flynn when Lewis was taken into custody yet again -- accused in the playground shooting that seriously injured a young girl.
"He is a convicted felon already -- at the age of 18," Chief Flynn said.
In Lewis' juvenile case files, charges range from robbery to auto theft.
In 2008, records indicate Lewis was charged with battery and disorderly conduct.
A year later, while at a Milwaukee-area middle school, Lewis allegedly threatened to get a gun and kill his teacher.
He allegedly told school officials he was a member of the gang "Murda Mobb" -- and had access to plenty of guns.
According to documents, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections ordered Lewis be sent to "Lincoln Hills School" -- a juvenile detention facility, for at least 11 months.
Hand-written notes describe Lewis as being "very defiant." Staff members also comment that "he's angry about something, but won't talk about it."
In September of 2012, Lewis was charged as an adult for a burglary case that occurred just a few houses away from the playground where Guyton was shot.
According to a criminal complaint, Lewis forced his way through the home's metal security door.
A resident inside recognized Lewis from the neighborhood.
Lewis allegedly told her: "Don't go telling your mom that I robbed your house, because I didn't. The door was unlocked."
Initially, Lewis pleaded not guilty to the crime, but later entered into a plea deal. He was ordered to spend a year in jail with credit for time already served during the court proceedings.
The court stayed the sentence -- and Lewis was placed on probation for three years.
As part of his probation, Lewis was ordered to finish high school and take a mental health assessment.
The judge also wanted Lewis to find a job, and take all prescribed medications.
In the case involving the shooting of Guyton, Lewis faces three charges, including: one count of first-degree reckless injury (use of a dangerous weapon), one count of first-degree recklessly endangering safety (use of a dangerous weapon), and possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to the criminal complaint, Lewis and another individual were shooting at each other, when the child was caught in the crossfire — and shot.
Milwaukee police on Wednesday, May 28th announced the arrest of the second suspect in this case.
He is a 28-year-old Milwaukee man -- and he will be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office for charges.
Sierra Guyton was taken to Children’s Hospital for treatment of serious injuries after she was shot on the playground on May 21st.
A relative of Sierra Guyton on Wednesday, May 28th updated FOX6 on the little girl’s condition.
She is said to be in stable condition — and has been taken off some medication.
She has moved her eyes, but for the most part, remains unresponsive.
CLICK HERE to read a collection of stories related to the shooting of 10-year-old Sierra Guyton via FOX6Now.com.