PHOENIX — Dave Dinkins, 24, has been sentenced to 42 years in prison for the gruesome murder of Geoffrey Rugwiro, whose body was beaten, burned, and discarded in a dumpster in March 2023.
The crime occurred near 11th Avenue and Madison Street, in an area formerly known as “The Zone,” a neighborhood plagued by crime and violence.
Details of the Crime
According to surveillance footage, Rugwiro was lured into a dark corner, where he was savagely beaten. Blood evidence was later found at the scene. His body was then transported in a shopping cart to a dumpster, where Dinkins set it on fire.
Phoenix police identified Dinkins as one of the individuals in the surveillance video and uncovered incriminating text messages linking him to the crime.
Victim’s Background
A member of Rugwiro’s family described him as “one of the few beacons of hope for life” after their family escaped genocide in Rwanda. The brutality of the crime has left the family devastated.
Legal Proceedings
Dinkins pleaded guilty to Second-Degree Murder, a Class One Dangerous felony, and Kidnapping, a Class Two Dangerous felony.
“This defendant showed an unimaginable level of cruelty and an immense disregard for the victim’s life,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “My office is committed to holding accountable those who threaten the safety and security of our community.”
Co-Defendant Awaits Trial
The co-defendant in the case, Isaiah Baskin, faces multiple charges, including First-Degree Murder, Kidnapping, Arson, and Abandonment or Concealment of a Dead Body. His trial is pending.
Impact on the Community
The case underscores the ongoing efforts to address crime in areas like “The Zone” and ensure justice for victims and their families. Rugwiro’s murder serves as a stark reminder of the violence that has affected vulnerable communities in Maricopa County.
Maricopa County Attorney’s Office continues to pursue justice for crimes that undermine public safety, vowing to hold perpetrators accountable.