Mesa, AZ – A disturbing case of violence against a Department of Child Safety (DCS) worker in Mesa reached a critical legal conclusion as the attacker was sentenced to prison. The attack, which was broadcast live on social media, shocked the community and raised concerns about safety and the challenges faced by child safety professionals.
De’Andre Terrell Johnson, who assaulted a DCS caseworker during a meeting at the Mesa Tower in November 2024, was sentenced to 17.5 years in prison after convictions on multiple charges. The incident, captured and livestreamed on Facebook, demonstrated extreme aggression motivated by Johnson’s anger over a child investigation involving his daughter.
A Chilling Attack Captured on Livestream
On the afternoon of November 5, 2024, Johnson was recording a meeting with the caseworker in the lobby of The Mesa Tower, near Alma School Road and Southern Avenue. After the meeting, Johnson unexpectedly attacked the caseworker from behind, placing him in a chokehold while telling him he was a “dead man,” according to prosecutors.
The victim endured the chokehold for approximately two and a half minutes, losing consciousness as seen clearly in the footage. Witnesses attempted to intervene, pleading with Johnson to release the worker. After dropping the victim onto the tile floor face down, Johnson resumed choking him upon realizing he was still breathing.
- The caseworker showed signs of distress: bulging eyes, drooling, and muscle tension.
- Multiple bystanders urged Johnson to stop.
- Johnson fled the scene but was later apprehended after leading police on a chase in Scottsdale.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Following the attack, Johnson faced serious charges and was convicted by a jury earlier in 2025. The verdict included:
- One count of attempted first-degree murder
- Four misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct
- One felony count of unlawful flight from law enforcement
De’Andre Terrell Johnson was sentenced to 17.5 years in prison, a decision announced recently by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
“It’s not just the violence of this crime, but that he livestreamed it for the world to see, that makes it so alarming,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “There is no justification for this defendant’s ambush attack on someone who was simply doing his job to protect kids.”
Impact and Community Response
The livestreaming aspect of the attack brought immense public attention and raised awareness of the risks faced daily by DCS workers. The attack underscored how dangerously volatile situations can become, especially in child protection cases involving family members.
Community members and child safety advocates have expressed support for the victim and highlighted the need for enhanced security measures in DCS offices.
How This Case Shapes Future Safety Measures
This sentencing underscores the seriousness with which authorities treat attacks on child safety workers. It also prompts a conversation about protecting these essential public servants as they perform sensitive investigations.
Experts and officials may consider:
- Implementing stricter access controls and security protocols in DCS offices
- Training for workers on handling hostile family members
- Expanding public education about the importance and challenges of child welfare investigations
Your Thoughts Matter
What do you think about this incident and the safety of child protection workers? Have you witnessed or experienced challenges in these sensitive situations? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
