CUSTER COUNTY, Colo. (KOAA) — Years after three lives were cut tragically short in a small Colorado community, the man responsible for gunning down his neighbors was found guilty of murder.
Hanme Clark was handed down three life sentences for three first-degree murder charges to be served consecutively by a Fremont County Judge. Under Colorado law, first-degree murder carries an automatic life sentence without the possibility of parole.
- 3 Life sentences for 1st Degree Murder
- 48 years with 5 years probation for Attempted First Degree Murder and Assault
- 3 years with 2 years probation for Felony Menacing
- All sentences are to be served consecutively.
The sentencing came after family members took the stand to provide victim impact statements about who they were and the impact of having their lives cut short. Clark, who was in the packed Fremont County courtroom, sat silently and emotionless as family provided their statements.
During the trial, the defense requested that sentencing be held on Friday after the jury found Clark guilty on Thursday because the suspect's family and family members of the victims were already in town, according to the Custer County Sheriff's Office.
The victims were 63-year-old Rob Geers, 73-year-old Beth Wade, and 58-year-old James Daulton. Patty Daulton, the wife of James, was airlifted and treated for her injuries at the time of the shooting.
The shooting happened on Nov. 20, 2023, along Rocky Ridge Road in a rural part of the county. According to The Gazette, prosecutors focused on witness testimony from Patty and a surveyor who were present during the shooting.
The dispute was reportedly over property and land boundaries. Clark was reportedly seen leaving the area after the violent crime and was later arrested in New Mexico.
- Watch Our Previous Coverage About The Ongoing Property Dispute That Led To The Shooting
You can read more about the trial from the Gazette by clicking here.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE
Three victims identified in deadly shooting in Custer County, suspect in custody
Suspects involved in a triple homicide near Westcliffe extradited back to Colorado
Woman facing accessory to murder charges in Custer County bonds out of jail over the weekend
Judge finds sufficient evidence for trial for a man accused of a triple homicide
Lengthy neighbors' dispute investigators say led to deadly shooting
El Paso County woman convicted of murdering her stepson could have a new trial
The Colorado Court of Appeals has reversed Letecia Stauch's conviction. She was found guilty of murdering Gannon Stauch back in 2023 and sentenced to life in prison.
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