MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – The sentencing of Ma-Kaesiah Willis, for her role in the murder of Hertie Loyd, has sparked outrage from Loyd’s family, who believe that Willis was not held accountable for her actions. Willis, 23, pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and fleeing and eluding police as the driver in the robbery-murder of Loyd, for which Corey T. Crump was convicted of first-degree murder. Loyd was killed while selling marijuana to Crump at an apartment complex in Clinton Township on June 25, 2021.

Willis was sentenced to one year in prison by Macomb County Circuit Judge Julie Gatti. Due to already serving approximately 2-½ years in jail, Willis was granted release. However, she was taken into custody in Wayne County for murder and carjacking charges related to another incident with Crump two weeks after the Loyd murder. Both are set to face a Jan. 29 pretrial in front of Wayne Circuit Judge John Gillis.

At Willis’ sentencing, Tina, the mother of the late Hertie Loyd, expressed her frustration with the leniency of the sentence, stating, “She skated on this.” Tina also questioned Willis’ testimony and accused her of lying on the stand. Macomb County assistant prosecutors revealed that Willis was offered a deal for her testimony to convict Crump, bringing heated emotions from the victim’s family.

The family’s anguish was further evident as Tina expressed hope that Willis faces more serious consequences in Wayne County for her role in the slaying. Loyd’s sister, Keisha, also expressed her devastation, saying, “There’s many days I want to call my brother. My brother was a family man. He did what he had to do to support his family.”

The tragic killing has left a lasting impact on Loyd’s loved ones, and they are seeking justice for his senseless death. Willis’ relatively light sentence has sparked distress and hope for a more severe punishment in Wayne County, as the family continues to grapple with the profound loss of their beloved Hertie Loyd.