FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Ohio — Justice has finally been served for the family of Bradd E. Johnson Jr. Nearly two years after Johnson was found deceased in his home, his killer has entered a guilty plea and been sentenced to a lifetime behind bars.
Fairfield County Sheriff Alex Lape announced Wednesday that Granville E. Gibson, 45, of Laurelville, appeared in court on March 17, 2026. Gibson entered a guilty plea in connection with the 2024 homicide and was immediately sentenced to 25 years to life in prison.
The Investigation: A Relative’s Grim Discovery
The case dates back to the morning of May 24, 2024. Deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 8000 block of Pleasantville Road after a relative discovered Johnson’s body.
What followed was a meticulous, months-long investigation led by Fairfield County detectives and the County Coroner’s Office. Investigators processed a vast array of physical evidence and conducted numerous witness interviews to piece together the events leading to Johnson’s death.
The Arrest and Resolution
The break in the case came in early 2025. A Fairfield County Grand Jury indicted Gibson on February 6, 2025, and he was taken into custody shortly thereafter.
With yesterday’s guilty plea, Sheriff Lape noted that the community can rest easy knowing there is no ongoing threat to the public.
“I would like to thank our Deputies and Detectives… for their dedication and professionalism in bringing this case to justice,” Sheriff Lape said in a statement. “Their commitment ensured accountability and resolution for the victim and his family.”
Case Timeline Date Milestone
May 24, 2024 Bradd E. Johnson Jr. was discovered deceased in Pleasantville.
Feb 6, 2025 Granville E. Gibson was indicted by a Grand Jury.
Mar 17, 2026 Gibson pleads guilty; sentenced to 25 years to life.
The Sheriff’s Office considers the case officially resolved.
