Chicago Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Violent Carjacking

Damarri Conner and Kenneth Merritt attacked a family in their own backyard, stealing their vehicles at gunpoint.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a scratched and dented car key fob, conceptually representing the aftermath of a violent carjacking incident.The trauma of a violent carjacking lingers long after the crime, as seen in the damaged personal effects left behind.Chicago Today

A 23-year-old Chicago man named Damarri Conner has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for his role in a violent carjacking that occurred in November 2023. Conner and an accomplice, 29-year-old Kenneth Merritt, attacked a family in their own backyard, punching the woman in the face, pointing a loaded gun at her and her husband, and stealing the family's Audi sedan before later taking their Range Rover as well.

Why it matters

Carjackings are on the rise in many major U.S. cities, with Chicago being one of the hardest hit. These crimes are particularly traumatic for victims, violating the sanctity of their homes and personal property. This case highlights the need for strong law enforcement and sentencing to deter such violent acts.

The details

Surveillance video captured the incident, showing the victims - a woman and her daughter - arriving home and pulling into their garage when Conner and Merritt emerged from the darkness and attacked them. Conner punched the woman in the face and pointed a gun at her and her husband when he rushed outside. The husband had to instruct the carjackers on how to start the Audi before they drove off with it. Conner later stole the family's Range Rover as well, but police were able to track it to his neighborhood and find him hiding in a closet.

  • The carjacking occurred on November 2, 2023.
  • Conner stole the keys to the family's Range Rover on November 14, 2023.

The players

Damarri Conner

A 23-year-old Chicago man who pleaded guilty to federal carjacking and firearm offenses and was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Kenneth Merritt

A 29-year-old Chicago man who pleaded guilty to similar charges as Conner and is awaiting sentencing on June 9.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Carjackings are among the most personal and terrifying crimes committed in this District. This crime was heinous and violent. The trauma he inflicted on his victims will take years to repair.”

— Elie Zenner, Assistant U.S. Attorney

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for strong law enforcement and sentencing to address the rise in violent carjackings that have traumatized communities across the country. While no sentence can undo the harm caused, lengthy prison terms for offenders like Conner aim to deter future such attacks and provide a measure of justice for victims.