Joshua Nichols, son of Oklahoma City bombing accomplice Terry Nichols, received a prison sentence exceeding 17 years for his involvement in a 2020 kidnapping and armed robbery in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. Along with George William Moya III, Nichols lured a 67-year-old jeweler to a vacant Henderson home, where they robbed him at gunpoint, stealing cash, jewelry, clothing, and a cellphone.
Both Nichols and Moya accepted plea deals in March, avoiding a potential trial and lengthier sentences. Nichols pleaded guilty to kidnapping and armed robbery, while Moya pleaded guilty to armed robbery. Clark County District Court Judge Carli Kierny sentenced each separately according to their plea agreements. Nichols received a sentence of five to more than 17 years, while Moya received four to 15 years. Both received approximately three years' credit for time served and were ordered to pay a combined $5,100 in restitution to the victim.
Joshua Nichols (Chase Stevens/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP)
Prior to sentencing, Nichols' lawyer, Augustus Claus, unsuccessfully attempted to postpone the proceedings, citing medical reasons. Judge Kierny rejected the request, stating that the provided medical records indicated Nichols' health concerns were minor. Nichols' plea agreement allowed him temporary release on bail with electronic monitoring, affording him time with his wife.
This isn't Nichols' first encounter with the law. He has a history of arrests and convictions in Nevada, including prior prison time for offenses like armed assault, vehicle theft, and resisting arrest. He has also previously undergone treatment for drug abuse.
His father, Terry Nichols, is currently serving multiple life sentences without parole for his role in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, which claimed 168 lives. Joshua Nichols relocated to Las Vegas with his mother following her divorce from Terry Nichols years before the tragic event.
