Kenneth and Melody Thexton exit the Bates County Courthouse with attorneys Friedrich and Truesdale following sentencing Friday afternoon.
Kenneth and Melody Thexton were ushered into the the Bates County Circuit Court this afternoon following a brief consult with attorneys Jonathan Truesdale and Scott Friedrich, then were greeted by an opening statement by Prosecutor Hugh C. Jenkins.
"In all my years of service have I ever seen such a case of cruelty and depravity" said Jenkins "This went on years and years and it all can't be blamed on drug use. There's a serious element here. And ends up being a life sentence for the children involved, they never get over it. And they (the defendants) never showed remorse."
Scott Friedrich, attorney for Kenneth Thexton took the floor and argued that "yes, drug use can certainly be a factor but mostly mental health issues related to abuse that Thexton was subjected to at a very young age" likely played a role in his mental well being. Friedrich went on to say that Thexton scored low on several mental evaluations and was not considered a threat to the public. He concluded his arguments by asking judge M. Brandon Baker to show leniency for those reasons.
Jonathan Truesdale followed by saying that his client, Melody Thexton did indeed show remorse and admitted bad behavior. He noted that Thexton was also a victim of child abuse and asked for leniency as well.
All three attorneys spoke before a courtroom full of guests, including over 20 members of the Guardians of the Children motorcycle club who looked on and listened intently as the victims impact statement was read aloud.
The young woman began "I've never known what loving parents would be like. But I'm not scared any more. Once I knew I was safe, I'd never go back again. This is sick and disgusting." The tearful statement included being forced at a young age to watch (her parents) perform sex acts and participate on multiple occasions throughout her young life.
"They should be euthanized" she added before concluding her 5 minute or so affirmation which when completed, left the courtroom eerily silent.
Judge Baker then took a few moments before announcing the sentence which will result in a total of 32 years in the Missouri DOC for each of the Thexton's as follows:
Count 1 - 20 years
Count 2 - 12 years
Count 3 - 12 years
Count 4 - 7 years
Count 5 - 7 years
Count 6 - 7 years
Count 7 - 7 years
Counts 2 through 7 are to run concurrent to each other but consecutive with Count 1 for a total of 32 years total. Also a time credit was issued for days already served.
