On Monday, Oct. 30, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced the sentencing of Alicia Keator, 40, to 25 years in prison for her role in the murder of 65-year-old John Fernandez. Fernandez, a wheelchair-bound elderly man, was found dead in his apartment after a welfare check was performed by the Baytown Police on Jan. 2, 2018.
Keator had agreed to care for Fernandez in exchange for accommodation. However, instead of assisting him, she and her boyfriend, Marcus Gilbert (also known as “Skunk”), plotted a robbery that led to the murder of Fernandez. The elderly man was discovered with his limbs tied, and his mouth taped, having been suffocated.
Fernandez, described by neighbors as a gentle grandfatherly figure, had no local family and required daily help. Keator had moved in a little over a month before the incident.
The couple was arrested after the theft of Fernandez’s belongings, which included his TV, cellphone, and ATM card. While Gilbert negotiated a plea deal for a 60-year sentence, Keator collaborated with prosecutors, providing crucial evidence against Gilbert without any promise of leniency. This cooperation played a significant role in her sentencing.
Harris County District Judge Frank Aguilar mentioned that Keator’s sentence might have been more severe had she not aided the prosecutors. Both convicts will be eligible for parole after serving half their respective sentences.
District Attorney Ogg emphasized the vulnerability of the elderly and disabled, condemning the couple for exploiting Fernandez’s kindness and stating they rightfully deserve their prison terms.
