MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – A 50-year-old inmate has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his 73-year-old cellmate at the Macomb County Correctional Facility.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said Aaron Samir Akel was arraigned in 42-2 District Court Monday (July 20) on charges stemming from the April 22 killing of Daniel Hosmer inside the jail in New Haven.
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Prosecutors allege Akel strangled Hosmer during the early morning hours before stabbing him in the eye and impaling him through the other eye with the broken handle of a broomstick.
According to the prosecutor’s office, Hosmer was discovered later that morning by another inmate.
Jail staff responded immediately and attempted lifesaving measures, but Hosmer died from his injuries.
Akel was arraigned Monday on the following charges:
- First-degree premeditated murder, punishable by life in prison without parole.
- Possession of a weapon by a prisoner, a felony punishable by up to five years in prison.
- Habitual offender, second offense, a sentencing enhancement.
Prosecutors said the charges are the most serious permitted under Michigan law based on the evidence gathered so far.
Akel’s bond was set at $500,000 cash or surety.
He is currently incarcerated at the Ionia Correctional Facility, where he is serving an unrelated sentence.
Akel is scheduled to appear for a probable cause conference on Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. in 42-2 District Court.