BAKERSFIELD, CA — William Dee McIntosh, a prison inmate, was convicted by a Kern County jury of attempted murder, assault by an inmate serving a life sentence, and inmate possession of a weapon. The verdict was delivered on February 28, 2025, following a trial stemming from a violent incident that occurred at Kern Valley State Prison in Delano, California, on September 22, 2022.
According to the prosecution, McIntosh, along with co-defendant Jason Sawyer, attacked a fellow inmate in the prison’s dayroom. The attack began when Sawyer struck the victim from behind, and McIntosh joined in, chasing and continuing the assault. During the incident, a third inmate attempted to intervene, but McIntosh wounded them as well. McIntosh then returned to the first victim, stabbing them repeatedly in the head and body.
Sawyer, who had pleaded no contest to all charges before the trial, testified against McIntosh. However, the jury rejected the defense’s testimonies and convicted McIntosh. The court also noted McIntosh’s extensive criminal history, including previous convictions for murder, attempted murder, and assault with a weapon, which contributed to several aggravating factors during sentencing.
Kern County District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer stated, “Criminals must answer for their actions, without exception. Justice demands accountability in all cases, including those already serving time. These two dangerous individuals must now face the consequences.”
Sawyer is scheduled for sentencing on March 19, 2025, while McIntosh will be sentenced on April 1, 2025. Both defendants face an additional 54 years to life in prison as a result of their convictions.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure that even those already serving time face justice for violent acts committed behind bars.
