Muskegon man sent to prison for home invasion, firearm convictions

Joshua McGraw, with his attorney, Al Swanson, Jr.

By Allison Scarbrough. Contributing Editor.

LUDINGTON — A 27-year-old Muskegon man was sentenced Tuesday, Oct. 6, in 51st Circuit Court to consecutive terms of two years in prison for felony firearms and 20 months to 15 years for second-degree home invasion.

Joshua Dale McGraw, of 1697 Terrace, was initially charged with felony counts of burglary, felony firearm, receiving and concealing stolen property and larceny following his arrest last June.

Mason County Prosecutor Paul Spaniola and McGraw’s attorney, Al Swanson, Jr., argued whether McGraw was a “leader” or a “follower” in the crimes as it pertained to his sentencing.

“Mr. McGraw was one of the leaders of this particular situation,” Spaniola said, noting that four defendants were involved.

“He was follower, which led into a bad situation,” Swanson said.

“He doesn’t qualify as a leader,” Judge Susan K. Sniegowski said, “but he wasn’t a follower — he was an active participant.”

“I just want to apologize to the community and the victim,” said McGraw, who received credit for 114 days served in jail. He was also ordered to pay $1,000 restitution, which is joint and several with the co-defendants.