Ryan Cato, a 38-year-old man from New York City, has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the brutal murder of his girlfriend’s 10-year-old son, Ayden Wolfe. Cato tortured Ayden to death after subjecting the young boy to repeated abuse.
The Tragic Incident and Investigation
The incident that led to the investigation occurred on March 6, 2021, when first responders arrived at the Harlem apartment where Cato lived with his girlfriend, Aquisha Johnson. They found Ayden unconscious, naked, and without a pulse. Despite efforts to revive him, Ayden succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
At the hospital, doctors were shocked to discover the extent of the abuse Ayden had endured. His body showed signs of brutal physical trauma, including bruises, broken ribs, and internal injuries. These injuries included severe lacerations to his liver, kidneys, and renal vein. Medical examiners confirmed that Ayden’s cause of death was battered child syndrome.
Details of the Abuse
Prosecutors revealed the horrifying details of the abuse that Ayden suffered at the hands of Cato. It was reported that Cato forced Ayden to hold weights over his head while repeatedly punching him. In an even more disturbing revelation, Cato filmed the abuse and sent the videos to his friends.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated that Ayden, who was isolated from teachers and other trusted adults due to the pandemic, endured unimaginable violence at the hands of his mother’s boyfriend. The abuse lasted for weeks, and it culminated in Ayden’s tragic death.
The Events Leading Up to the Murder
On March 5, 2021, loud bangs and thuds were heard from the apartment, prompting Ayden’s mother, Aquisha Johnson, to intervene. Johnson reportedly told Cato to stop abusing her son, but instead of stopping, Cato allegedly threatened Johnson.
The following day, Johnson called 911, but Cato took the phone away from her, preventing her from getting help.
The Legal Proceedings and Sentence
Before Cato’s trial, Johnson pleaded guilty to manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide for her role in Ayden’s death.
She also testified against Cato during his trial but was not permitted to read a victim impact statement. Johnson’s plea deal allows her the option to withdraw her manslaughter plea under a cooperation agreement.
Ryan Cato was convicted of second-degree murder and endangering the welfare of a child. He was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for his horrific actions, which ended the life of an innocent child.