TYLER, Texas — Brad McKinney, 53, pleaded guilty on Monday in a Smith County courtroom to conspiring to stalk, kidnap, and kill a woman in exchange for money. He entered his plea to the charge of conspiracy to commit capital murder for remuneration, a first-degree felony that carries a sentence of five years to life in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for July 31.
McKinney was arrested in January along with Dustin Yates, 51, in connection to a disturbing plot targeting Yates’ ex-girlfriend. According to court documents, investigators discovered text messages on Yates’ phone revealing detailed plans to surveil and ultimately kill the woman, with McKinney agreeing to assist for payment.
Yates, referencing McKinney’s skills as a sniper and hunter, initially offered $650 for help and later proposed $800 for more detailed involvement. Their messages included discussions about weapons, disguises, and posing as delivery workers to access locations tied to the woman.
One exchange revealed McKinney encouraging Yates to act violently rather than take his own life, saying, “take out some filthy people in our country and go down swinging buddy.”
At the height of the conspiracy, Yates reportedly offered $15,000 for McKinney to record the woman’s kidnapping, rape, and murder. Their conversations included grotesque suggestions involving weapons, rental vehicles, and brutal acts of violence.
Dustin Yates is set to stand trial for the same charge on July 7.