Joshua Williams waded into the Ferguson, Missouri unrest after the shooting of Michael Brown by Officer Darren Wilson and became a prominent voice for peaceful protests.
However, he has now been sentenced to 8 years in prison after pleading guilty to arson, burglary, and stealing. He had been accused of starting a fire at a Quik Trip in Berkeley, Missouri after the officer involved shooting death of Antonio Martin.
On camera footage shows Williams using a lighter to set fire to an area in the Quik Trip store. Williams was a recognizable protester wearing the same red sweat shirt at many peaceful Ferguson protests.
The 19 year old, had previously been an advocate for peace, had spoken at a National Action Network rally, marched peacefully with Cornel West, and had been a regular face at many Ferguson protests.
BMWK, what do you think? Is his sentencing fair?