(WNY News Now) – BUFFALO, NY – A Buffalo mother was sentenced to three years’ probation after being convicted of unlawfully taking her children from their legal guardian in violation of an active order of protection.
Jennie M. Johnson, 41, received her sentence Friday morning before Buffalo City Court Judge Carrie Phillips. Johnson had pleaded guilty to Custodial Interference in the Second Degree and Unlawful Imprisonment in the Second Degree, both Class “A” misdemeanors, on August 6, 2024.
The charges stem from an incident on April 18, 2024, when Johnson lured her two children away from their legal guardian near Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. Despite an order of protection issued by Erie County Family Court, Johnson unlawfully restrained the children, taking them in a vehicle to her home. The children were reported missing but were safely located the following day, April 19, 2024.
As part of the sentencing, final orders of protection were issued for the children and their legal guardian, remaining in effect for five years.
“Protecting the welfare of children remains a top priority,” said Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane, who credited the efforts of Detectives Jim McMahon and Michael Laun, along with Buffalo Police Department officers, for their swift response and thorough investigation.
Assistant District Attorney Daniel J. Mattle of the Special Victims/Domestic Violence Bureau prosecuted the case.
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