HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — A 14-year-old boy was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after being convicted of murdering his grandmother in a brutal attack. Amauri Powe was found guilty of first-degree murder for the killing of 46-year-old Parzella Harris, who suffered 37 stab wounds in their shared home.
The sentencing on March 25 concluded a controversial case that began on February 4, 2024, when police discovered Harris’s body in their residence on 18th Street. Authorities indicated that both Powe and his grandmother lived together, marking a tragic turn in a family that was once close-knit. The details released during the trial revealed a gruesome scene, as prosecutors emphasized the violent nature of the crime.
During the trial, prosecutors presented a narrative that Powe had discussed with a friend about obtaining money from Harris before committing the act. Medical professionals testified that Harris had sustained extensive injuries, which included defensive wounds, suggesting she may have fought back. Witness accounts pointed to Powe appearing visibly shaken during this testimony, struggling to confront the reality of his actions.
Further courtroom discussions highlighted the emotional toll on Harris’s family. She was remembered not only as a victim but also as a beloved grandmother and dedicated worker, who spent over a decade employed by West Virginia Choice. Family members described her as nurturing and generous, and the loss was keenly felt during the sentencing hearing.
Powe’s life sentence included a provision for possible parole after 15 years, in accordance with state law governing juvenile convictions for serious crimes. At the sentencing, he expressed remorse, characterizing his actions as “terrible” and stemming from drug use at the time of the incident. However, the sincerity of his apology was questioned by prosecutors, who noted the severity of the crime and the impact on Harris’s family.
Prosecutor Jason Spears indicated that the murder was one of the most heinous cases he had encountered in his career. Family members addressed the court, voicing their sorrow and confusion and emphasizing the devastation caused by the loss. Harris’s sister conveyed a sentiment of unforgiveness, struggling to comprehend why Powe committed such an act against a family member.
With the legal proceedings now concluded, Powe begins his life sentence, faced with a long road before parole eligibility. The emotional repercussions for Harris’s family will endure far beyond the courtroom, underscoring the tragic fallout of the violent crime. The next significant moment in the case will arrive years from now, when Powe may seek release from incarceration.