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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

Justin Jamal Powell, age 32 of Alabaster, was sentenced to life in prison on Monday, April 7 for manslaughter in relation to the 2021 death of his girlfriend, Dajah Cutts.

Judge Bill Bostick pronounced the sentence in open court on April 7 after hearing testimony and arguments from the state and the defendant.

The state presented evidence that Powell had been convicted of three prior felony offenses, including assault in the second degree, burglary in the third degree and theft of property in the first degree. Powell was originally charged with murder in the death of Cutts who was shot to death in 2021. Powell was convicted by a jury in February of the lesser included offense of manslaughter.

“Mr. Powell’s actions were senseless and entirely avoidable,” District Attorney Matt Casey said. “We hope this conviction will bring closure to the family of Ms. Cutts, as well as stand as a reminder to any that would commit acts of violence in our community that we will vigorously pursue your prosecution.”

On Aug. 3, 2021 at 4:30 p.m., the Calera Police Department responded to reports of shots fired at a residence on Ninth Ave. in Calera. Upon arrival, officers found Cutts suffering from a gunshot wound and fire personnel rendered aid, after which Cutts was transported by ambulance to the University of Alabama at Birmingham hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.

Powell was arrested at the scene and also faced charges for unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance in the form of methamphetamine, use or possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

In an official press release, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office acknowledged the work performed by the Calera Police Department on the case, including lead detective Lt. Robbie Grant. Chief Deputy District Attorney Ben Fuller and Assistant District Attorney Brooke Grigsby prosecuted the case at trial.