Bio

William Kenny Stephens was born in 1948. He grew up in Georgia, he faced various challenges and obstacles. He was known to have issues related to his mental health and displayed signs of schizophrenia and mental retardation later in his life.

By January 1979, Stephens had already gotten into trouble with the law. He was arrested for driving under the influence and for driving without a license. While in police custody, he was questioned about a burglary that had taken place at a department store, where several weapons were stolen.

On January 24, 1979, after failing to report to the police as agreed, Investigator Larry D. Stevens located Stephens and tried to question him. It was during this encounter that a series of tragic events unfolded. After his arrest, Stephens was sentenced to death in February 1980 following a conviction for murder, which led to a complicated legal journey through various trials and appeals.

Murder Story

William Kenny Stephens was involved in the murder of Investigator Larry D. Stevens on January 24, 1979, in Richmond County, Georgia. The events leading up to the murder started when police had detained Stephens for questioning in connection with a burglary where several weapons were stolen. During this questioning, it was discovered that he was driving under the influence and without a valid license, resulting in his arrest.

After agreeing to provide information about the burglary in exchange for his release, Stephens failed to report back to the police as scheduled. When Investigator Stevens located him, he followed Stephens and initiated a stop. After notifying fellow officers of his location, Investigator Stevens was shot by Stephens while attempting to use his radio. The first shot hit the officer in his arm. Despite being wounded, Stevens managed to draw his weapon and fired back at Stephens.

Stephens continued shooting, hitting Stevens again, this time fatally in the chest. Following the shooting, Stephens fled the scene in his car, eventually leading police on a high-speed chase. He stopped at a store to purchase more ammunition but was later apprehended by law enforcement.

During his trial, Stephens was charged with murder and multiple counts of aggravated assault against police officers. He was found guilty of all charges and sentenced to death. His death sentences were reviewed and resentenced multiple times due to various legal considerations, including claims regarding his mental health, which included schizophrenia and mental retardation. Ultimately, he received a life sentence in 2000, following further legal proceedings related to his mental condition.