Josey, an African American man residing in New Hanover County, North Carolina, was enslaved by Job Howe. Sometime prior to November 1744, Josey self-emancipated, or ran away from his enslaver. Josey was on his own for about three months, during which time he was accused of committing several thefts. Eventually, Josey was apprehended and killed while resisting capture. Later his former enslaver, Job Howe, petitioned the colonial assembly asking for compensation for Josey's death.