Louisiana Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2nd Degree Murder

A man convicted earlier this month of killing his cousin’s boyfriend and then threatening witnesses in the case, was sentenced to life in prison in Caddo District Court Wednesday, March 20, 2024. The term must be served without the benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

27 year-old Dana Combs, found guilty as charged of second-degree murder March 7, received the mandatory sentence from District Judge Michael Pitman for his slaying of Colvin Wayne Germany, 39, on April 24, 2021.

Germany and his girlfriend had an argument after she found messages from another woman on his phone. After the two arrived home, Germany begin packing his belongings, and allegedly took the girlfriend’s tax refund money. The girlfriend told Combs and the other cousins that Germany had taken her money.

Combs, along with others, went to Germany’s house in the 4100 Block of Theo Street and waited by a vacant house across the street, armed with guns and lead pipes. When Germany arrived to pick up the remainder of his belongings, Combs approached him, shooting him several times, killing him.

Germany was hit by bullets in the side of his neck, back and hands. A pathologist testified that the victim’s hands were likely on the steering wheel when he was shot. Combs then pulled Germany out of the car and drove away.

Throughout the course of the case, Combs urged his brother who had witnessed the shooting, as well as his cousins and Germany’s girlfriend, to not show up to court and recant their testimonies. He also sent threatening messages.

Combs took the stand, claiming self-defense, testifying that Germany was going for a gun when he rushed the vehicle. A detective testified in rebuttal that his statements were inconsistent with evidence and Comb’s behavior leading up to trial.