Philadelphia Man Sentenced for Kidnapping, Robbery of Ambler Woman

Deonte Nasir Davis received 10-20 years in prison for his role in the 2023 home invasion and ransom plot.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Deonte Nasir Davis, 28, of Philadelphia, was sentenced to 10-20 years in prison for his role in a 2023 home invasion, kidnapping, and robbery of an Ambler woman. Davis was one of three men involved in the plot, which included ransacking the victim's apartment, binding her, and holding her for a $250,000 ransom at a Philadelphia residence before she was able to escape.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of violent home invasions and kidnappings for ransom in the Philadelphia region, with vulnerable residents being targeted. It also raises concerns about bail reform and whether enough is being done to keep repeat offenders off the streets.

The details

According to prosecutors, Davis, along with Baheejah H. Alwan, 44, and Samaj Dawkins, 22, broke into the victim's Ambler apartment, stole valuables, and kidnapped her at gunpoint. They then took her to Alwan's Philadelphia home and tried to access her bank accounts and demand a $250,000 ransom. The victim was able to escape when the men briefly returned her to her apartment.

  • On February 19, 2023, the home invasion and kidnapping occurred at 11:25 PM.
  • In February 2023, the incident took place.

The players

Deonte Nasir Davis

A 28-year-old Philadelphia man who was sentenced to 10-20 years in prison for his role in the home invasion, kidnapping, and robbery.

Baheejah H. Alwan

The 44-year-old Philadelphia man who was the mastermind of the plot and was previously sentenced to 13-45 years in prison.

Samaj Dawkins

A 22-year-old Philadelphia man, reportedly Alwan's nephew, who previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 3-6 years in prison for his role in the incident.

Ambler Woman

The victim of the home invasion, kidnapping, and robbery, who was held for ransom at Alwan's Philadelphia residence before escaping.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.