October 19, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Joseph Scarborough, 48, of Princeton, was sentenced to 47 years in prison without the possibility of parole for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “Today a jury made sure a child predator will spend the rest of his life in prison.  This was only possible because of the child’s courage and resilience, as well as the family member who reported the assaults,” added Willis.

Scarborough knew and had ongoing access to the child.  He sexually abused the victim for approximately one year, beginning when the child was 8 years of age.  Scarborough would sexually abuse the child when his mother was out of the home.  Scarborough confessed his past abuse of the child to a family member, who then reported it to authorities.

Collin County Sheriff’s Office Corporal Danny Stasik investigated the case.  McKenzie McIntosh with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the child who disclosed a detailed account of the abuse.

The jury returned a guilty verdict and assessed punishment at 47 years in prison.  By law, a sentence for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is without eligibility for parole.  Judge James Fry presided over the case.

After punishment concluded, the victim, the victim’s mother, and the family member to whom Scarborough confessed all gave victim impact statements.  That family member said “when I meet my maker, I don’t want him to ask me why I didn’t protect those children … my job here is done.”

Assistant District Attorneys Marisa Dunagan and Geeta Singletary prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigators Kim Eanes and Greg Bowers and Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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September 18, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Augusto Carrera, 45, of McKinney, was sentenced to 45 years in prison without parole for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “This predator will never violate another child again because this courageous teenager spoke out,” added Willis.

A relative of the 14 year old victim found her in a frantic state just after being sexually assaulted.  Carrera, who was known to the victim’s family, was in the bathroom.  The victim’s relative asked the victim what happened.  The victim said Carrera sexually assaulted her and had assaulted her numerous times over the course of two years.  The victim’s relative reported the abuse to law enforcement.

McKinney Police Department investigated the case and Detective Jason Pruett and Officer Robert Ensor interviewed Carrera.  When they asked Carrera about the abuse, he said the victim tells the truth and does not lie.

Eli Molina with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the victim who disclosed details about the abuse, how it progressed over the years, and that she did not tell anyone earlier because Carrera told her “no one will ever believe you.”  The jury returned a guilty verdict on all eight counts including Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, Indecency with a Child, and Sexual Assault of a Child.  Following the jury’s guilty verdicts, Judge John Roach Jr. sentenced Carrera to 45 years in prison.  By law, a sentence for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is without eligibility for parole.

After punishment concluded, the victim, who receives special education services at school due to her developmental delays, bravely read her victim impact statement in court.  Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Peter Ganyard and Brandon Wonnacott prosecuted the case, aided by District Attorney Investigator Greg Bowers, Legal Secretary Erin Fontenot, Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs and Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County Family Advocates Jennifer Pineda and Myrna Mason.

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August 3, 2018

(McKinney, Texas)  Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis announced that Bryce Clark, a habitual felony offender with prior convictions involving multiple victims and domestic violence, was sentenced to 75 years in prison after the jury found him guilty of Online Impersonation.  “Habitually violent abusers deserve to pay for their crimes, and innocent victims deserve to live in peace,” added Willis.  “The jury’s verdict accomplishes both.”

On July 26, 2015, the victim fled from an abusive marriage with Clark and sought shelter with her three children at Hope’s Door in Collin County, Texas.

On August 3, 2015, while attending a children’s therapy group session at the shelter, the victim received a multitude of vulgar messages from unknown numbers on her phone.  After responding to one of the numbers, she received a link to a post on Craigslist with her photograph, phone number and a vulgar solicitation for men to contact her.  She immediately requested Craigslist remove it and reported the unauthorized post to the Plano Police Department.

Plano Detective Jeff Rich investigated the case and discovered that Clark made the post on an account linked to him, despite Clark’s claims that the victim created the account and framed him.

The jury found Clark guilty of Online Impersonation.  During the punishment phase of the trial, prosecutors introduced evidence of Clark’s prior convictions for Felony Assault, Fleeing from a Police Officer, Criminal Possession of a Forged Document, Violation of a Protective Order, and Terroristic Threat, which enhanced the range of punishment.  Evidence presented also showed that Clark abused the victim and her children for several years, and that he made threats to law enforcement officers while awaiting trial.

The jury, taking into consideration Clark’s prior convictions, threats and abusive history, assessed punishment at 75 years in prison.  Judge Scott Becker presided over the case.

Assistant District Attorneys Ashley Briggs and Nick Lawrance prosecuted the case and were assisted by District Attorney Investigators Jon Hooper and Jared Clark and Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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August 1, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis announced that Arnulfo Mercado-Pena Jr., a habitual offender and violent gang member, was sentenced to 60 years in prison after the jury found him guilty of Evading Arrest with a Vehicle while using a Deadly Weapon.

In October 2017, Princeton Police Officer Curtis Humphreys observed Mercado-Pena, 32 and from Paris, Texas, speeding at 98 MPH on US 380.  Officer Humphreys attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Mercado-Pena refused to pull over.  Mercado-Pena led Humphreys on a high-speed chase for several miles along US 380.  Eventually, Mercado-Pena turned off of US 380, slowed to a low speed, and jumped from his vehicle while it was still moving.  Officer Humphreys pursued Mercado-Pena on foot for a short distance before Mercado-Pena surrendered.  Officer Humphreys arrested Mercado-Pena and took him into custody.

The jury found Mercado-Pena guilty and also found that Mercado-Pena used a deadly weapon during the commission of the offense, specifically a motor vehicle.  During the punishment phase of the trial, prosecutors introduced evidence of Mercado-Pena’s prior convictions including Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Failure to Stop and Render Aid, Aggravated Assault, and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.  Additionally, Plano Police Officer Erin Merrit testified how Mercado-Pena’s multiple tattoos identify Mercado-Pena as a member of the gang Tango Blast.

Judge John Roach Jr. presided over the case and found that Mercado-Pena’s multiple convictions made him “a habitual offender,” and sentenced him to 60 years in prison.

Assistant District Attorneys Bobby Huber and Luke Calhoun prosecuted the case.  They were aided by District Attorney Investigators Ryan Harvey and Michael Coleman.

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July 19, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Dean Basil Johnson, 52, of McKinney, was sentenced to 8 years in prison for Indecency with a Child by Contact to be immediately followed by 10 years of community supervision for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

In August 2017, a child victim, known to Johnson, reported to her mother that Johnson had sexually assaulted her the previous weekend at Johnson’s home.  The abuse was immediately reported to law enforcement.  On the same date, another child victim known to Johnson also reported she had been sexually assaulted by Johnson multiple times over the previous year.

After receiving the report, Investigator Fernando Robledo and Sergeant Chris Fontana with the Collin County Sherriff’s Office Child Abuse Task Force initiated an investigation.  Eli Molina and Rachel McConnell with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the victims who disclosed further details about the abuse.

Johnson pleaded guilty to Indecency with a Child by Contact and Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and was sentenced to 8 years in prison and 10 years of community supervision, respectively.  Assistant District Attorneys Bill Wirskye and Geeta Singletary prosecuted the case.

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May 31, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Richardson resident Jose Ynes Oliba-Cabrera was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the Murder of a Plano woman, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “I’m proud of our Domestic Violence Unit’s hard work, which guarantees that this murderer will never again harm another woman,” added Willis.

In May 2017, Oliba-Cabrera, 51, stabbed his former girlfriend, Ludivina Frias, 48, multiple times and then stabbed himself in the chest in the 3900 Block of W. Parker Road in Plano.  Civilians nearby witnessed the brutal assault and contacted 911, resulting in an immediate response to the scene by Plano Police.  EMS transported both Frias and Oliba-Cabrera to a nearby hospital, where Frias was pronounced dead upon arrival.  Plano Detective Paul Martinez thoroughly investigated the case.

Oliba-Cabrera pled guilty to murder for an agreed punishment of 50 years in prison.  Several members of Frias’ family gave victim impact statements following the plea.  Frias’ oldest son said his mother was a “woman who would dare to smile on the saddest of days.”  He called Oliba-Cabrera a “coward for attacking a defenseless woman.”  Frias’ sister said “although we hate what you did, we will not be consumed by hate.”

Frias was a mother to five children and leaves behind her father, brothers and sisters, and many other relatives.  She worked tirelessly to support her family, enjoyed cooking for them, and loved to listen to music and dance.

Assistant District Attorneys Kim Laseter and Peter Ganyard prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Robin Laughon and Victim Assistance Coordinator Jenni Ball, who provided support for the victim’s family.  Judge Benjamin Smith assessed the agreed sentence.

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May 22, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Michael Edward Harssema, 45, formerly of Dallas, was convicted of three different sexually violent offenses.  He was sentenced to 20 years for Sexual Assault of a Child, and two 20 years sentences for Indecency with a Child by Contact along with $10,000 fines for each sentence.  One of the 20 Year sentences for Indecency with a Child will run consecutive to the Sexual Assault of a Child, making a total 40 year sentence, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

In January 2014, a child victim reported to a therapist that Harssema, her former attorney, sexually assaulted her.  After receiving the report, Special Agent Joe Anders of the Federal Bureau of Investigation initiated an investigation.  Special Agent Anders interviewed Harssema, who lied and attempted to mislead authorities.  Michelle Lanier with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the victim who disclosed details about the abuse.

During the two week trial, the victim’s mother testified that she was desperate to help her daughter who struggled from an eating disorder and drug addiction.  She sought assistance from Harssema.  On the day Harssema met the victim, he separated the victim from her mother, telling the mother that the victim would open up more about her struggles if he met with her privately.  Once alone with the victim, Harssema provided her with both Xanax and alcohol.  In addition, instead of driving the victim home from their dinner meeting, Harssema stopped at a nearby 7-11 where he purchased more alcohol. He later pulled into an Allen neighborhood where he sexually assaulted the underage victim.  The victim’s mother attempted to reach Harssema more than 30 times.  He did not take her calls but evidence introduced by prosecutors showed he took other calls.  Special Agent Anders also testified about evidence he found that corroborated the victim’s account, including cell phone records that placed the victim and Harssema in the area described by the victim.

During the punishment phase of the trial, prosecutors introduced evidence of a 2012 sexual assault of another victim who reported Harssema assaulted her while he was working as her attorney.  Judge Barnett Walker presided over the case and determined that one of the sentences would be served consecutively.

Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Shannon Miller and Crystal Levonius prosecuted the case.  They were aided by District Attorney Investigator Greg Bowers and Victims Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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May 4, 2018

(McKINNEY, Texas) – Quinton Gold Hodge, 19, of Dallas, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for Attempted Capital Murder, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis. “Where there is gang activity, there will be crime,” added Willis. “Criminal street gangs are not welcome in Collin County and the violent crimes they commit will not be tolerated.”

On March 20, 2016, Hodge and an accomplice lured the victim to a residence in Plano through social media.  Once the victim arrived at the location, Hodge and his accomplice robbed the victim at gunpoint.  The victim gave the perpetrators his property and tried to leave the location on foot.  As the victim walked away with his hands in the air, Hodge shot him through the torso.  As a result of the gunshot wound, the victim spent three weeks in the hospital and underwent several surgeries to save his life.  Police were able to identify Hodge and his accomplice through social media.  Police also discovered that Hodge is a known gang member in the YNB gang from Dallas.  Members of the YNB gang have committed several other assaults, robberies, and murders in Dallas County.

Plano Police Detective Jonathan Hay investigated the case.  Dallas Police Detectives Chris Walton and Eric Barnes assisted Hay with the criminal investigation.

Hodge pled guilty to Attempted Capital Murder on April 25, 2018, and the sentencing hearing concluded on Monday, April 30, 2018.  Judge Mark Rusch presided over the sentencing hearing and assessed punishment at 40 years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.  The accomplice, Robert James Pearson, pled guilty in September 2017 and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Assistant District Attorneys Ashley Keil and Melanie Wiesman prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Michael Bennett.

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May 2, 2018

(McKINNEY, Texas) – A 17-year-old Plano man has been arrested for criminal solicitation of capital murder and making a terroristic threat, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis on behalf of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Frisco Police Department, and the Plano Police Department.

Matin Azizi-Yarand, a high school student, was arrested for making terroristic threats to carry out his plan of committing a mass shooting at a local mall and for soliciting other individuals to assist him in the mass shooting attack.  Azizi-Yarand was inspired by ISIS to conduct this attack, which he had planned for mid-May.  At the time of arrest, Azizi-Yarand sent more than $1,400 to others for the purchase of weapons and tactical gear.  He had written and planned to disseminate his “Message to America” explaining the reasons for his attack.

Azizi-Yarand will be prosecuted by the Collin County District Attorney’s Office with support from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas.  Under Texas state law, if convicted, Azizi-Yarand faces up to life in prison for criminal solicitation and up to ten years in prison for making a terroristic threat.  He is in custody and bond amounts have been set totaling $3 million dollars.

“We are fortunate that the brave men and women of local and federal law enforcement work around the clock to prevent acts of terrorism and mass shootings,” said Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “I’d like to thank the FBI’s North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Frisco and Plano Police Departments for their efforts in this case and their vigilance in protecting the citizens of Collin County.”

“The FBI’s North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force was able to successfully work with local, state, and federal partners to apprehend an individual who intended to do harm within the city of Frisco, Texas.  The FBI is not aware of any additional threats associated with this arrest.  The American people can take comfort in knowing that we continue to work diligently to protect and defend the United States and to ensure the safety of the communities we serve,” said Eric K. Jackson, FBI Dallas Special Agent-In-Charge.

“The facts of this case, though alarming, serve as an example of the power of cooperation and the importance of each individual remaining vigilant in the spirit of ‘see something-say something.’  I would like to thank all the local and federal partners who worked on this case for the teamwork displayed in keeping our North Texas community safe,” said John W. Bruce, Frisco Police Chief.

“Sadly, we have heard a lot about terrorism in the media, and it has become a concern in our lives.  This case exemplifies the wide reach terrorist groups have through social media and other means to radicalize others in communities across our country, but more importantly it demonstrates the high level of collaboration that exists between law enforcement agencies to prevent such plots from being carried out.  I wish to thank the FBI and all law enforcement agencies in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force for their work on this case,” said Gregory W. Rushin, Plano Police Chief.

The FBI’s North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force is made up of numerous local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.  The mission of the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) is prevention, detection, and investigation of terrorist acts affecting the United States interests; and, to apprehend individuals who commit or plan to commit such acts. Experiences learned from the subsequent investigation of the 9/11 attacks led to the need for a “one-team – one fight” approach.  JTTFs serve as the platform connecting law enforcement (LE) communities to the Department of Defense, the United States Intelligence Community, and foreign LE entities. JTTFs leverage the collaborative efforts of LE agencies to accomplish the counter terrorism mission.  The North Texas JTTF (NJTTF) is comprised of four counterterrorism squads located in Fort Worth, Frisco, and Dallas.

If anyone has any information on this case or defendant, please call the FBI’s Public Access Line at 855-324-7257 or email at https://tips.fbi.gov.  Caller information will be kept confidential.

Copies of the arrest warrant affidavits are attached to this press release.

An arrest is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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April 10, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Steven Glen Baugh, 34, of Garland, was sentenced to life in prison for Continuous Sexual Abuse of Children, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

In November 2016, a child victim known to Baugh reported to her school guidance counselor that Baugh sexually assaulted her.  The abuse was reported to Child Protective Services and law enforcement.

After receiving the report, Sergeant Chris Fontana with the Collin County Sherriff’s Office Child Abuse Task Force initiated an investigation.  Eli Molina with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the victim who disclosed details about the abuse which began when she was 6 or 7 years old and continued until she was 8.  Baugh, a registered sex offender, was convicted in 2004 of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and served five years in prison for that offense.  A warrant was issued and Baugh was arrested at his residence in Garland.

In July 2017, Baugh was scheduled for trial for the Continuous Sexual Abuse of this victim.  Three days before that trial was to begin, a second victim who was related to Baugh came forward at a church youth retreat and revealed that Baugh sexually assaulted her on one occasion when she was 12.  Detective Fontana investigated this case and filed charges against Baugh for the abuse of the new victim.

Visiting District Judge Carmen Rivera-Worley presided over the trial and found Baugh guilty.  During the punishment phase, the State presented evidence of Baugh’s prior convictions for the 2004 Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and a 2014 Indecent Exposure.  After hearing the evidence, Judge Rivera-Worley sentenced Baugh to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Abigail Policastro and Crystal Levonius prosecuted the case.  They were aided by District Attorney Investigator Kim Voight Eanes and Victims Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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April 11, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Frederick Douglass Feaster, 37, of Dallas, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for Murder, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

On February 3, 2017, multiple people called 911 to report gunshots at an apartment complex in Plano, Texas.  When police arrived at the apartment they found Miko Walker’s body in the living room of his apartment.  He was shot twice before he died.  There was evidence he attempted to protect himself by shooting at his attacker.

The same day, Plano Detectives were also notified of a gunshot victim at a local hospital who reported he was robbed at a gas station.  The man at the hospital was Frederick Feaster.  Feaster told Methodist Hospital Officer Miles Hanks and Richardson Police Officer Ryan Otero he was at a bar with friends and then was robbed at a gas station, but he was not able to tell officers what bar or what gas station.  Feaster was shot multiple times, including the wrist.

The next day Plano Detectives met with Feaster.  They informed Feaster they found his phone at the victim’s apartment.  Feaster was arrested for murder and warrants were obtained for his DNA.  Test results revealed that Feaster’s DNA matched the DNA found on a bullet at the apartment and the blood in the parking lot.  In addition, cell phone GPS records put Feaster at the scene at the time of the murder.  The case was investigated by Plano Detectives Courtney Noel and Brian Pfahning.

Feaster was indicted for Capital Murder and the State presented evidence that Feaster killed the victim during the commission of a robbery; however, the jury did not find beyond a reasonable doubt that a robbery occurred.  The jury did return a guilty verdict on the lesser charge of Murder and assessed a 30 year prison sentence.  Judge Andrea Thompson presided over the case.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Katherine Nolden and Cynthia Walker.  They were aided by District Attorney Investigator Michael Coleman and Victims Assistance Coordinator Renee Thompson.

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February 28, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Andrew Callaway, 28, of Wylie, received the maximum sentence, 2 years in state jail, for Animal Cruelty and also 10 years in prison for probation violations, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “This sentence sends a message that animal abuse will not be tolerated in Collin County.”

On May 2, 2017, Wylie Police Department was dispatched to the 600 block of East Oak Street in reference to an animal cruelty call.  Officers Christopher Gordon and Robert Harper met with a neighbor who witnessed Callaway stomping on a four-month-old boxer puppy multiple times.  Officers attempted to check on the welfare of the puppy at the Callaway residence, but Callaway denied them access.

Lieutenant Mike Atkison and Officer Sam Shipley obtained a warrant and returned the next day to find the puppy gone.  Wylie Animal Control located the puppy at the Richardson Animal Shelter, took custody, and re-named the puppy Spirit.  Spirit was then taken to Parker Road Veterinary Hospital for treatment.  The veterinarians found a fracture to his pelvis and countless fractures to both hind legs.  They were unable to repair Spirit’s serious bodily injuries, leaving humane euthanasia as the only option.  The case was investigated by Wylie Police Department, including Lieutenant Tommy Walters, Lieutenant Mike Atkison, Officer Christopher Gordon, and Officer Sam Shipley.

During the sentencing phase of Callaway’s guilty plea, Parker Road Veterinarian Dr. Greg Myers testified about the severity of Spirit’s injuries and the court heard evidence of Callaway’s lengthy criminal history in Collin and Dallas counties, including four felony drug convictions.  Prosecutors also presented evidence that Callaway was on second degree felony probation for a drug offense at the time of this charge and that Callaway violated his bond conditions by failing to appear for court.

After considering this evidence, Judge Mark Rusch assessed punishment at 2 years state jail for Animal Cruelty and 10 years in prison for probation violations on the drug charge.

Assistant District Attorneys Calli Bailey and Lisa Smith prosecuted the case, aided by District Attorney Investigator Laurie Gibbs.

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February 23, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Zachary Alan Holifield, 19, a former baseball player at Plano Senior High School who had committed to Oklahoma State University to play college ball, was sentenced to 33 years for Aggravated Sexual Assault of Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

On June 16, 2016, the parents of the 5 year old victim learned that Holifield sexually molested her when she was attending a daycare operated by Holified’s mother in Holifield’s home.  The victim’s parents reported the abuse and Plano Police Department initiated an investigation lead by Detective Daniel Bryeans.  Lisa Martinez with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the child, who disclosed details about the abuse which began before age 5 and continued until the outcry.  Further investigation and forensic interviews revealed that another child who attended the daycare was also sexually abused by Holifield.

Holifield was arrested and interviewed by Detectives Daniel Bryeans and Aaron Benzick.  He confessed to sexually abusing the 5 year old on numerous occasions when his mother was busy or out of the home.  Plano Police Department Detectives Courtney Noel and Brian Pfahning also assisted with the investigation.

Holifield pled guilty to Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, and was sentenced yesterday to 33 years in prison, without the possibility of parole.

Assistant District Attorney Shannon Miller prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Greg Bowers and Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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February 15, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Christopher Dee Acklin, 46, of Plano, was sentenced to 32 years in prison for Injury to the Elderly Causing Serious Bodily Injury with a Deadly Weapon, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

In December 2016, Acklin got drunk and then strangled and beat his mother, age 73, at her home in Plano.  The injuries he caused required extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts on her arms and surgery for a fractured femur.  Plano Police Department Detective James Phelan investigated the case.

During the sentencing phase of Acklin’s plea of guilty, the victim testified that she closed her eyes during the assault and felt like she was going to die.  Prosecutors presented evidence of prior assaults by Acklin, including a 2010 conviction for assault family violence against his mother, and a 2013 conviction for assault family violence against his wife at the time.

Prosecutors presented even more evidence of Acklin’s other criminal conduct, including two prior convictions for DWI, multiple violations of protective orders, as well as Plano Police Sgt. Christer Matthews’ testimony about Acklin’s bad conduct post-arrest.

Judge Benjamin Smith assessed punishment at 32 years in prison.

Assistant District Attorneys Kim Laseter and Kim Kircher prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Robin Laughon and Victim Assistance Coordinator Jenni Ball.

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February 1, 2018

(McKinney, Texas) – Michael Eric Pennington, 33, of McKinney, was sentenced to life without parole for the Capital Murder of a McKinney woman, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

On July 4, 2016, the victim, Leasa Carroll called police to report that a man was pounding on her front door and threatening to kill her.  She identified the man as Pennington.  McKinney officers responded and saw Pennington walking out of the front door of Carroll’s residence holding a bloody knife.  Officers immediately detained Pennington and entered the house.  They found Carroll lying on the floor of the living room with apparent stab wounds.  Carroll was already deceased.  Further investigation revealed that the blood found on the knife Pennington was holding belonged to Carroll, and that Pennington had parked his car on a different street in an effort to surprise Carroll at her home.  Pennington had no known connection to Carroll, other than Pennington’s girlfriend used to live in Carroll’s neighborhood.

McKinney Police Department Officers Jon Rouse and Robert Ensor were first on the scene, while McKinney Police Department Detective Cody Webb investigated the case.

The jury found Pennington guilty of Capital Murder, the punishment for which is an automatic life in prison without the possibility of parole.  Judge Mark Rusch presided over the case and pronounced that sentence.

Assistant District Attorneys Abigail Policastro and Ashley Keil prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Michael Bennett and Victims Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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November 13, 2017

McKinney, Texas – Charles Gray, 48, of Plano, was sentenced to 50 years in prison without the possibility of parole for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child and 50 years in prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “This case also highlights the devastating impact of sexual abuse on the survivors – this brave child victim was so traumatized that she contemplated taking her own life,” added Willis.

In 2015, the victim posted online that she was considering suicide.  A friend saw the post and notified the police.  When inquiring as to the reasons for the post, the victim told law enforcement that she had been abused for several years.  Gray, who is related to the victim, began sexually abusing her when she was 6 years old and continued until she was 12.  At the time of the investigation, the victim was 15.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County’s Janeth Peterson forensically interviewed the child, who disclosed details of the abuse.  Plano Police Department Detective Justin Lawrence investigated the case.

The jury found Gray guilty of both Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child and Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, and assessed the punishment at 50 years in prison for each charge and a $10,000 fine.  The sentences will run concurrently.  Judge Barnett Walker presided over the case.

Assistant District Attorneys Brandon Wonnacott and Ashley Keil prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigators Greg Bowers and Jennifer Gomez and Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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October 19, 2017

McKinney, Texas – Cruz Daniel Feliciano-Salinas, 24, of McKinney, was sentenced to Life in prison without the possibility of parole for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “This courageous child ensured that this vile predator can never harm another child,” Willis added.

Feliciano-Salinas lived in the child’s family home and had ongoing access to the female child.  He sexually abused her over the course of a number of years until she turned 8 years old.  Feliciano-Salinas told her not to tell anyone.  Shortly after Feliciano-Salinas moved back to Mexico, the child told her mother that Feliciano-Salinas abused her.  Feliciano-Salinas was arrested upon reentry into the United States.

McKinney Police Department Detective Techia Davis investigated the case. Lisa Martinez of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County forensically interviewed the child, who described in detail the specific instances of sexual abuse by Feliciano-Salinas.

The jury returned a guilty verdict and Judge Carmen Rivera-Worley assessed punishment of Life in prison without the possibility of parole for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child.

Assistant District Attorneys Geeta Singletary and Brandon Wonnacott prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Kim Voigt-Eanes and District Attorney Victim Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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September 25, 2017

McKinney, Texas – Jason Michael Lowe, 28, of Richardson, Texas received a 50 year prison sentence for the murder of his girlfriend, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

In December 2015, Jessie Bardwell, a 27-year-old woman, moved to Richardson, Texas from Mississippi to live with her boyfriend, Jason Lowe.  Bardwell’s parents became extremely concerned when she failed to call her mother on Mother’s Day, May 8, 2016.  Bardwell’s parents contacted the Richardson Police Department and asked them to check on her welfare.

Richardson police officers made contact with Lowe at his apartment.  As they questioned Lowe, it became apparent that he was lying about Bardwell’s disappearance.  During their investigation, detectives discovered evidence in Lowe’s car and garage indicating Lowe was the last person to see Jessie Bardwell alive.  On May 19, 2016, Lowe led police and prosecutors to the location of Bardwell’s body in rural Farmersville, Texas.

The medical examiner determined her death was the result of homicidal violence.  Police traced evidence collected near Bardwell’s body back to Lowe, including a cargo mat found on top of Bardwell’s body that fit the trunk of Lowe’s vehicle. Richardson Detectives Chiron Hale and Eric Willadsen investigated the case.

Lowe claimed at trial that Bardwell’s death was accidental.  The jury, however, returned a guilty verdict. Judge Scott Becker sentenced Lowe to 50 years in prison.

Bardwell’s parents gave emotional victim impact statements describing their love for their daughter, their grief since her murder, and how Lowe isolated her from family and friends.

Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Wes Wynne and Cynthia Walker prosecuted the case, aided by District Attorney Investigators Jon Hooper and Mike Smith, and Victims Assistance Coordinators Renee Thompson and Susanne Riggs.

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September 14, 2017

(McKINNEY, Texas) – On Monday, October 2, 2017, the Collin County District Attorney’s office will host a “Cut it Out” Luncheon to train hair stylists to notice signs of domestic violence and safely refer clients for help, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.

Salon professionals from all over Collin County will gather for the “Cut It Out” training and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Landing – Myers Park & Event Center, located in McKinney at 7117 County Road 166.  This presentation trains stylists how to (1) recognize the signs of domestic violence, and (2) safely and confidentially refer their clients to resources for help.  The luncheon and training is provided at no cost for all attendees.

“This program is specifically designed for stylists,” District Attorney Willis explained, “because they tend to have long term, supportive relationships with their clients.  Stylists are also uniquely positioned to notice signs of abuse – including bumps, bruises, and scratches – that others may not see.”

With proper training on how to recognize the signs of abuse and safely refer victims to help, salon professionals can become invaluable and influential community partners in the fight against domestic violence.

Joining us in support of this event are many community partners who assist victims of domestic violence: Emily’s Place, Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, Hope’s Door New Beginning Center, Mosaic Family Services, Inc., Stronger than Espresso, Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation, The Family Place, and The Turning Point/Rape Crisis Center.

In addition to the luncheon training, Collin County District Attorney prosecutors and investigators will also provide free “Cut it Out” training at local salons throughout October, which is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Those interested in attending the luncheon or scheduling a “Cut it Out” training, please contact Collin County District Attorney Victim Assistance Coordinator Jenni Ball at jball@co.collin.tx.us.  For additional information regarding this program, please review the invitation to the event: Invitation to Cut it Out Luncheon.

September 13, 2017

(McKinney, Texas) – Steven Troy Tillery, 50, of Plano, was sentenced to 50 years in prison for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, announced Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis.  “This child’s courage in speaking out ensured that this perpetrator is locked up, behind bars, never to violate another child again,” added Willis.

Tillery sexually abused a child related to him at least 3 times in her sleep when she was 12 – 13 years old. Tillery also sent the child text messages describing the acts of abuse and asked the child to allow him to continue with the abuse in exchange for gifts.  The child told her mother about the text messages and her mother then contacted law enforcement.

McKinney Police Department Detective Adrian Guzman and Sergeant Damian Guerrero investigated the case.  The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County’s Janetta Michaels forensically interviewed the child, who disclosed details of the abuse.

The jury returned a guilty verdict and Justice Kerry P. Fitzgerald assessed punishment at 50 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child.

Assistant District Attorneys Geeta Singletary and Bobby Huber prosecuted the case, assisted by District Attorney Investigator Kim Voigt-Eanes and Victims Assistance Coordinator Susanne Riggs.

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