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The city of Phoenix has been profoundly affected by the violent actions of Cleophus Cooksey Jr., who was sentenced to death by a jury. This decision follows a lengthy seven-month trial, during which Cooksey was found guilty of a series of murders that claimed the lives of eight individuals over a span of three weeks in 2017. The victims included not only random individuals but also Cooksey’s own mother and stepfather, adding a disturbing layer to this case.
Cooksey, 43, was convicted on multiple charges, including murder, kidnapping, armed robbery, and attempted sexual assault. After several days of deliberation, the jury sentenced him to death for six of the eight murder counts. However, they could not reach a consensus regarding the penalties for the murders of his mother and stepfather, leaving those two convictions unresolved.
The evidence
The series of murders began on November 27, 2017, when the bodies of Parker Smith, 21, and Andrew Remillard, 27, were discovered in a parked vehicle. Both men were shot while sitting in their car. Just five days later, Salim Richards, a 31-year-old security guard, was killed while walking to visit his girlfriend under similarly violent circumstances.
As the violence escalated, Latorrie Beckford, 29, and Kristopher Cameron, 21, were murdered in separate incidents at apartment complexes in Glendale. The final known victim, Maria Villanueva, 43, was found in a gruesome state, with her body discovered in an alley in Phoenix, where signs of sexual assault were reported. Cooksey’s DNA was identified on Villanueva’s body, further linking him to this horrifying series of events.
Connecting the dots
Law enforcement connected Cooksey to these murders through compelling evidence retrieved from his mother’s apartment following her death. Among the critical items found were a gun believed to have been used in several killings, car keys belonging to one of the victims, and a necklace that had once belonged to another victim, which Cooksey was wearing at the time of his arrest.
Authorities did not provide a clear motive for Cooksey’s actions, leaving the community with many unanswered questions. Cooksey maintained his innocence throughout the trial, claiming not to know most of his victims, although police indicated that he was familiar with at least some of them.
The implications
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Anyone who questions why we need the death penalty needs to look no further than this case.” She highlighted the profound impact of Cooksey’s actions on the community, describing him as a predator who deliberately targeted vulnerable individuals, thereby justifying the death sentence as a necessary response to his crimes.
Following the verdict, a sense of closure emerged for the victims’ families, particularly for Adriana Rodriguez, the daughter of Maria Villanueva. She expressed her grief and relief, stating, “He took my mom, the only support system that I had.” This sentiment resonates with many others affected by the tragic loss of their loved ones.
What happens next
As Cooksey’s case progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the impact of violent crime on communities. The legal proceedings have highlighted the necessity of justice while also underscoring the complexities involved in such significant cases. Cooksey, who had a prior history of violence and was released from prison shortly before these murders began, exemplifies how past actions can lead to future tragedies.
The resolution of this case reflects the community’s resilience in the face of adversity. Cleophus Cooksey Jr.’s sentencing is not merely a punishment for his actions; it also aims to provide solace to the victims’ families and reaffirm society’s commitment to justice.