Written by: JR Robinson

Shelby County, TN – In a decisive victory for justice, the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office has ensured that Joshua Dotson, a self-proclaimed "serial killer," will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Dotson was sentenced to an additional 159 years in prison on February 14, 2025, after pleading guilty to three counts of First-Degree Murder and other charges. This new sentence adds to his prior 102-year sentence for two murders in August 2024, bringing his total prison term to a staggering 261 years.

Dotson’s crimes spanned from 2019 to 2020 and included the brutal killings of five individuals:

• Jamesha Covson, his former girlfriend, and her unborn child.
• Divieon Parker, Renita Bennett, and Reginald Anderson, whose deaths he admitted responsibility for during his trial.

In court, Dotson shocked observers by referring to himself as a "serial killer" and likening himself to fictional horror character Michael Myers. His chilling confessions and lack of remorse underscored the severity of his crimes.

Assistant District Attorney Regina Lucreziano, who led the prosecution, expressed relief at the outcome:

“After five years, we are pleased to finally have justice for Dotson’s multiple victims. While no amount of time in prison will bring the victims back to their loved ones, we are content that he will never be a threat to our community again.”

A History of Violence

Dotson’s first conviction came in August 2024 when he was sentenced for murdering Covson and her unborn child in June 2020. The court handed down two consecutive life sentences totaling 102 years. During that trial, Dotson admitted to three additional murders, which led to today’s sentencing.

The latest charges also included three counts of Reckless Endangerment with a Deadly Weapon, further highlighting the danger he posed to public safety.

Tough on Crime

This case is another example of Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy’s commitment to holding violent offenders accountable. By pursuing consecutive sentences and refusing leniency, the DA’s office has sent a clear message: those who commit heinous crimes will face the full weight of justice.

Dotson’s sentencing ensures that he will never again walk free—a measure of closure for the families of his victims and a safeguard for the community.