North Charleston, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Willie Leo Darby, 27, received a 45-year sentence for killing his estranged husband, Michael Warren, 29, in North Charleston. Convicted on murder charges, the trial revealed a complex relationship marked by infidelity. Evidence including surveillance footage and cellphone data linked Darby to the crime scene. The case highlights ongoing issues of domestic violence and legal complexities faced during the trial.
North Charleston – Willie Leo Darby, a 27-year-old man, was sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison for the murder of his estranged husband, Michael Warren, who was 29 years old. The Charleston County jury delivered the sentence after convicting Darby of murder, assigning him 40 years for the killing and additional time for possessing a weapon during a violent crime. The tragic incident unfolded on November 12, 2021, in Warren’s North Charleston apartment, leading to significant legal proceedings that concluded nearly four years later.
The timeline of events began on the day of the murder when Warren spoke to a friend on the phone, reportedly saying, “He’s here,” just before the call was cut off. Following that alarming conversation, Warren was discovered deceased the next day, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the head. The police investigation revealed key evidence linking Darby to the crime scene. Surveillance footage captured Darby parking a red Chevy Cruze outside Warren’s apartment at 2:47 p.m. and leaving just minutes later, at 3:04 p.m. A 911 call reporting gunshots was made at 3:05 p.m.
In addition to the surveillance video, law enforcement found bullet casings at the crime scene that matched similar casings recovered from Darby’s vehicle. Eyewitness testimonies reported hearing gunshots around the time of the incident, further implicating Darby. Cellphone location data and text messages corroborated that Darby was near Warren’s apartment during the time of the murder. Importantly, investigators found no signs of forced entry into the apartment, suggesting a more intimate knowledge of the victim’s whereabouts.
Throughout the trial, Darby presented inconsistent statements about his activities on the day of the murder, initially claiming that he had not seen or spoken to Warren for days. The pair had a complex relationship, having dated for three years before marrying in March 2021, only to separate later that same year in November, due largely to mutual infidelity.
Despite substantial circumstantial evidence against him, the prosecution faced challenges during the trial due to restrictions on certain evidentiary submissions. Key evidence, including data from Darby’s cellphone and DNA findings, was not admissible in court. Additionally, Darby had a criminal history with prior convictions for grand larceny and second-degree burglary and was already facing pending charges for assault and robbery at the time of Warren’s murder.
The jury’s decision to convict Darby marks a significant moment in a case that has generated considerable attention both for the tragic nature of the crime and the legal complexities involved. This verdict signifies a step towards justice for Michael Warren and highlights ongoing issues related to domestic violence.
Timeline of Key Events:
- November 12, 2021: Michael Warren is murdered in his North Charleston apartment.
- September 12, 2025: Willie Leo Darby is convicted of murder.
- September 2025: Darby is sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Background Information:
Willie Leo Darby and Michael Warren shared a tumultuous relationship that began as a three-year courtship followed by a brief marriage in March 2021. Their separation a few months later was marked by infidelity from both parties, reflecting a complicated emotional landscape. The recent trial delved into the intricacies of their relationship, turning the focus onto the dynamics typical in many domestic violence situations.
FAQs
What was the reason for Darby’s conviction?
Willie Leo Darby was convicted of murder primarily due to substantial circumstantial evidence linking him to the killing of Michael Warren, including surveillance footage, gunshot reports, and cellphone data.
How long was Darby sentenced for?
Darby was sentenced to 45 years in prison, including 40 years for murder and additional time for possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
What was Michael Warren’s last known communication?
Michael Warren’s last known words were “He’s here,” spoken during a phone call with a friend before the call abruptly ended.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Murder Date | November 12, 2021 |
| Victim | Michael Warren, 29 |
| Convict | Willie Leo Darby, 27 |
| Conviction Date | September 12, 2025 |
| Sentence | 45 years (40 years for murder) |
| Key Evidence | Surveillance footage, 911 call, bullet casings, cellphone data |
| Relationship Duration | 3 years (married for several months) |
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Judge Sentences Man Convicted in North Charleston Murder Trial
- WV Metro News: Jury Deliberations Halted as Tensions Rise in Charleston Murder Trial
- WSAZ: Murder Trial Reaches Verdict in Kanawha County
- Post and Courier: North Charleston Murder Case Dismissed in Exchange for No Contest Plea to Obstruction
- WCHS TV: Charleston Teen to be Tried as Adult in September Murder Trial
- Wikipedia: Murder
- Google Search: North Charleston Murder Trial
- Google Scholar: North Charleston Murder Trial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Google News: North Charleston Murder Trial
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
