FRANKLIN COUNTY, Mo. — A jury recommended the death penalty for Kenneth Lee Simpson, 38, following his conviction in the 2023 shooting death of a Hermann police officer, FOX 2 Now reported.
Simpson was found guilty of nine charges, including first-degree murder, in the killing of Detective Sergeant Mason Griffith, according to the report. On Jan. 30, jurors reached a verdict and recommended Simpson be sentenced to death.
| WEBINAR: From response to resolution — leading police operations in the video era
The shooting occurred March 12, 2023, after officers responded to reports of a disruptive individual at a convenience store in Hermann. Authorities said Simpson opened fire after officers discovered he had an outstanding warrant. Griffith was fatally shot, and Officer Adam Sullentrup was injured.
During sentencing arguments, defense attorneys cited Simpson’s struggles with depression and substance abuse and urged jurors to consider life in prison. Prosecutors argued Simpson acted knowingly and showed no remorse, stating he later bragged about the shooting.
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway said the verdict delivers accountability but not closure, acknowledging the impact on both officers’ families and the broader law enforcement community.
Simpson’s formal sentencing is scheduled for June 12.
The proposal would add additional penalties of up to a year in prison or an additional fine up to $2,500 or both for people who wear face coverings while breaking the law
The Pierce County deputy pulled the driver from the burning truck, then attempted to put out the fire with the help of a bystander
The suspect being questioned by police at a hotel shot the two Gwinnett County officers after inviting them into his room, killing Officer Pradeep Tamang
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Christopher Ohlmeyer was escorting a funeral procession when his motorcycle was struck from behind
Lightweight, multi-fuel light provides broad fitment for compact and sub-compact handguns
