Three Sentenced in Brooklyn Federal Court for Armed Robbery Killing Security Guard
Today in federal court in Brooklyn, Charles Powell, known as "Payback," and Musah Coward, aka "General Mecka," "Red," and "General Red," received sentences of 42 and 45 years respectively. Their convictions stem from the firearm-related murder of security guard Rodney Maxwell during an armed robbery at a gambling location.
Both defendants were found guilty of discharging a firearm during a violent crime, Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy, and Hobbs Act robbery. Brian Castro, also known as "Morenaje," had been sentenced in December 2025 to 45 years for his involvement in the same incident.
All three defendants were convicted following a three-week trial in January 2025. The court ordered restitution payments totaling $26,730 to Maxwell's daughter as part of the sentencing.
This case was presided over by United States District Judge Eric Komitee in Brooklyn. The convictions and sentences reflect federal enforcement efforts against violent crimes related to robbery in New York.
