Habitual offender with 17 prior convictions sentenced to 50 years

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- A Montgomery County judge has sentenced Justin Cottrell, 42, to 50 years in prison following a bench trial stemming from a frightening incident in which his own mother barricaded herself inside her bedroom and called 911 for help.

On October 19, 2026, Judge Lisa Michalk of the 221st District Court found Cottrell guilty of Deadly Conduct and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Judge Michalk presided over both the guilt/innocence and punishment phases of the trial.

The case began when Cottrell’s mother called 911 after barricading herself inside her bedroom out of fear of her son’s escalating behavior. She reported that Cottrell was “going crazy” and tearing up the house. While she was speaking with emergency dispatchers, Cottrell went outside and discharged a firearm.

Cottrell elected to represent himself during the bench trial, with standby counsel present.

During the punishment phase, prosecutors presented evidence of Cottrell’s extensive criminal history, including 17 prior convictions. The court found that Cottrell qualified as a habitual felony offender under Texas law, increasing his punishment range to 25 years to life in prison. After considering the evidence, Judge Michalk sentenced Cottrell to 50 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Assistant District Attorney James Roberts prosecuted the case on behalf of the State of Texas. Assistant District Attorney James Roberts stated, “This case began with a mother barricading herself inside her own bedroom, afraid of her son’s actions. What unfolded was not simply a dangerous incident, but another chapter in a lengthy history of criminal behavior. The evidence established that this defendant had been given numerous opportunities to change course, yet continued to make choices that put others at risk. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and the consequences of repeatedly disregarding the law.”

District Attorney Mike Holley stated, “Your home should be a place of safety, not a place where you fear for your life. When someone repeatedly chooses criminal behavior and continues to put others in danger, accountability is not optional. This 50- year sentence sends a powerful message: We will not allow habitual offenders to jeopardize the safety of our families and communities. In Montgomery County, protecting the innocent and holding dangerous offenders accountable will always be our priority.”

This case serves as a powerful reminder that repeated criminal behavior carries serious consequences. The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office will continue to stand with victims, pursue justice without compromise, and work to ensure that those who repeatedly threaten the safety of our community are held accountable.