SHELBY COUNTY, Iowa — A man charged with murder in Shelby County has been sentenced to prison.
Winston Joseph Leal was originally charged with first-degree murder in the death of 32-year-old Theresa Kenkel. According to court records, Leal pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced Wednesday to up to 50 years in prison, with credit for time served.
Ashley McWilliams, charged as an accessory after the fact, has also entered a guilty plea. Her sentencing is scheduled for November 17th.
The charges stem from an incident on Thursday, July 31, when the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check at 204 2nd Avenue in Earling. Deputies found Kenkel deceased inside the residence.
The Shelby County authorities continue to investigate and prosecute cases to ensure justice is served.
