A Jefferson County decide on Monday sentenced a 60-year-old man to life in jail for the homicide of his ex-girlfriend in Conifer final 12 months.
A jury on Friday discovered Wayne Richard Lotz responsible of first-degree homicide after deliberation following a five-day trial, the First Judicial District Lawyer’s Workplace acknowledged in a information launch Monday.
On Feb. 15, 2022, authorities discovered Michele Scott, 55, useless in a ravine within the Conifer space. Neighbors had known as the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Workplace with considerations that they hadn’t seen her in just a few days.
Deputies discovered smeared blood on a truck parked in her driveway, within the storage and within the residence, in response to the discharge.
Authorities, earlier than finding her physique, discovered Lotz driving her automobile. He informed police that Scott was on trip and that he had permission to make use of her car and bank card whereas he cared for her animals, prosecutors stated.
Deputies finally discovered a rug and transferring blanket within the space of Nice Park and South Ridges roads. A half-mile down the highway, authorities situated Scott’s physique below a pile of stacked rocks, prosecutors stated.
She was discovered with a brown leather-based leash looped round her neck, and her wrists have been certain with braided rope. Lotz’s DNA was discovered on the leash, the DA’s workplace stated.
Prosecutors say Scott had beforehand reported home violence incidents and safety order violations in opposition to Lotz. On Feb. 1, lower than two weeks earlier than her homicide, Lotz pleaded responsible to tried violation of a civil safety order, authorities stated.
“Home violence is a horrible factor, and many individuals are afraid to talk out,” an unnamed buddy of Scott’s stated, in response to the information launch. “I thanks for taking this man off the streets and figuring out he won’t ever be capable of hurt one other girl or household like this once more. Thanks for justice.”
Chief Deputy District Lawyer Tyra Forbes stated the “heartbreaking lack of Michele serves as a solemn reminder of the risks lurking inside our neighborhood and the fact that home violence can occur to anybody.”
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