Loved ones of slain Kansas moms Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley confront quartet of suspects
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
WICHITA, KANSAS: Loved ones of Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, two Kansas mothers brutally slain last month, directed impassioned words at the quartet of suspects accused of their murders during a courtroom confrontation.
Witnesses reported that on Wednesday, April 24, family members voiced their anger, with one individual labeled as a "f**ing btch" and the others as "sorry pieces of sh*t."
Fifth suspect from 'God's Misfits' group arrested for murder of Kansas moms
The emotional encounter unfolded as the suspects made their first public appearance since their arrest on murder and kidnapping charges the previous Saturday. Tifany Adams, grandmother and guardian of Butler’s children, her boyfriend Tad Bert Cullum, and two acquaintances, Cora and Cole Earl Twombly, were among those arraigned on Wednesday. Each was denied bail by an Oklahoma judge, reported News Nation.
Additionally a fifth individual named, Paul Grice, aged 31, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with murder in connection with the women's deaths.
Families outcry as quartet arrive in courtroom
While phones and cameras were barred from the courtroom, reporter Brian Entin described the atmosphere as "extremely emotional." Footage from outside the courthouse captured the suspects being escorted in, wearing bulletproof vests, handcuffs, and orange and white striped prisoner jumpsuits.
Following the arraignment, a woman identifying herself as Butler's aunt spoke through tears, describing the struggle to restrain her brother from confronting the suspects. "To hold my brother back from jumping, there's just too many emotions—so much anger," she expressed. "My niece did not deserve that, and neither did the young lady with her."
Insights into Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley's murder investigation
The case has shocked the rural Oklahoma panhandle community since March 30 when Butler and Kelley disappeared while en route to Adams’ home. Police discovered their vehicle abandoned on a rural highway, surrounded by pools of blood, sparking fears of foul play.
Burner phones and tasers, potentially used in the crime, were reportedly found near the scene. Although two bodies were discovered on April 14, in Oklahoma, authorities have yet to confirm their identities. However, officials have stated there is "no" chance the mothers are still alive.
Law enforcement officials assert that all five suspects have ties to the 'God's Misfits' organization, known for its opposition to the government and regular meetings held at the Twomblys' home and various other venues. The motive behind this heinous act stems from Butler's contentious divorce and custody battle, worsened by Adams' refusal to grant Butler more time with her children.
