On February 11, 2026, just after a jury had been chosen, Darius McKenzie pleaded guilty to two counts of Aggravated Assault and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony stemming from a domestic violence incident in which he opened fire on his then-girlfriend and her daughter.
On the evening of December 11, 2022, McKenzie’s girlfriend and her daughter were going about their normal day when he arrived home intoxicated and agitated. As the two attempted to leave in their vehicle, McKenzie drove up, blocked their car, and opened fire first in the air. He then drove away, only to turn around and return to shoot directly at the victims.
After jury selection was completed, McKenzie chose to enter a blind plea to the charges, meaning there was no negotiated plea with prosecutors made to the Court. The state requested a sentence of 15 years with the first eight years to be served in prison. The Court sentenced McKenzie to 15 years with eight years to serve but suspended the active prison time so he will not spend any time behind bars.
“A jury was chosen and we were ready to go to trial,” said District Attorney Anita Howard. “We are committed to pursuing domestic violence cases regardless of the obstacles because every act of violence deserves to be answered. We recognize that victims of domestic violence often face extraordinary pressure, and we will always stand beside them. The cycle of violence does not break on its own. It requires accountability, and this Office will continue to do what we can within the law.”
Domestic violence offenses are among the most challenging cases to prosecute. The cycle of violence can trap individuals and families in ongoing harm, creating lasting physical, emotional, and psychological consequences. Breaking that cycle requires more than awareness. It requires accountability.
The Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office remains committed to prosecuting acts of violence even when victims do not wish to move forward with charges or are uncooperative once charges are filed. Prosecuting these cases is a critical step in protecting victims, preventing future harm, and reinforcing that abuse will not be tolerated in this community.