On September 8, 2023, after hearing evidence and arguments from both the State and the defense, Jackson County Judge Marco Roldan sentenced Ian McCarthy to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the shooting death of Clinton Police Officer Gary Michael.
Henry County Prosecuting Attorney LaChrisha Gray and Assistant Attorney General Kevin Zoellner represented the State of Missouri throughout the trial and in pursuit of the death penalty. Because the death-qualified jury could not reach a unanimous decision whether to sentence McCarthy to death or to life without the possibility of parole, the decision, by law, rested with the judge alone. Missouri’s law regarding this procedure, while rare across the nation, has been upheld by the courts. Ultimately, the judge concluded that he would not sentence the defendant to death.
Henry County Prosecuting Attorney LaChrisha Gray stated, “The actions of the defendant on August 6, 2017 took an honorable and respected officer and the feeling of safety in our community. What can never be taken away, however, is our resolve. The Henry County community proved that even when hurt or broken, our fight for justice and the protection of others will never waiver. It was shown in the way local businesses and people came forward to assist in the investigation, and through the decision of other officers to return to our community to serve. It was also shown by all those that endured a grueling six years long court process with steadfastness and dignity. Officer Gary Michael’s legacy will live on because of that resolve. He will forever be a part of this community.”
