A man has been sentenced to over 40 years in prison for the brutal murder of a man who was beaten to death and whose body was set on fire near downtown Phoenix.
The crime occurred on March 21, 2023. Phoenix police responded to a burning dumpster near 11th Avenue and Madison Street, within the area formerly known as “The Zone,” a large homeless encampment. The victim was later identified as Geoffrey Rugwiro.
According to investigators, surveillance footage revealed Rugwiro being lured to a dark corner where evidence of significant blood loss was found. His body was then placed into a shopping cart, discarded in a dumpster, and set ablaze.
Dave Dinkins, 25, was indicted months after the crime. He later pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree murder and kidnapping. Authorities noted that incriminating text messages tied Dinkins to the gruesome act.
“This defendant showed an unimaginable level of cruelty and an immense disregard for the victim’s life,” Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell stated. “For far too long, ‘The Zone’ has been a hotbed of crime and violence, creating unsafe conditions for both residents and those working nearby. Every member of our community deserves to feel secure, and my office remains committed to holding criminals accountable for their actions.”
A co-defendant, Isaiah Baskin, is also facing charges of murder, kidnapping, arson, and abandonment of a dead body. He is awaiting trial.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about safety and crime in high-risk areas, with officials pledging continued efforts to ensure justice and community protection.
