Man promised his girlfriend he’s going to get a divorce and start a new life with her shortly before he went to the bedroom where his wife was asleep and shot her to death; sentenced

South Carolina – In a chilling case in South Carolina, a 37-year-old man, identified as Matthew S., has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of his wife, Caitlin S., and their dog in a gruesome attempt to start a new life with his girlfriend. The county’s circuit court, presided over by Judge D. Jefferson, handed down the sentence after a jury found Matthew guilty of multiple charges, including murder, ill treatment of animals, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

On June 5, 2020, in a horrifying act of domestic violence, Matthew shot and killed his wife while she was asleep in their bed. In a further display of brutality, he also killed their dog. Not stopping there, Matthew inflicted superficial gunshot wounds on himself to stage the scene as a home invasion, aiming to mislead the police and cover up his heinous actions.

The Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office detailed how an extensive investigation involving forensic evidence, witness statements, and a critical five-hour interview with Matthew led to his arrest. The case unfolded over a five-day trial where the jury was presented with undeniable evidence of Matthew’s guilt.

The trial saw testimonies from various key individuals, including doctors, crime scene technicians, a co-worker of Matthew, and notably, Matthew’s girlfriend. Matthew’s co-worker shared with the court that he had expressed dissatisfaction with his marriage. More damning was the testimony from Matthew’s girlfriend, who revealed that prior to the murder, Matthew promised to divorce his wife and had discussed his plans to start a new life together with her elsewhere.

Adding to the overwhelming evidence, prosecutors pointed out that Matthew had been researching methods of killing on the internet, looking up topics such as homicidal strangulation, choking death, and cyanide poisoning. This premeditation and research into methods of killing further solidified the case against him, painting a clear picture of his intent to rid himself of his current family ties.

In addition to the life sentence for the murder of his wife, Judge Jefferson sentenced Matthew to two five-year terms for the ill treatment of his dog and for possessing a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. These sentences will run concurrently with his life sentence.

Assistant Solicitor A. Myers, who prosecuted the case, commented on the outcome, stating, “Matthew earned his sentence after his brazen betrayal and premeditation.” This sentiment was echoed in the community and by the officials involved in the case, who were shocked and saddened by the brutality and the deceit involved.

The Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office also took to social media to express their condolences, posting a photo of Caitlin with her dog with the caption, “Rest in peace, Caitlin and your fur baby.” This post not only served as a tribute to the victims but also as a reminder of the tragic and unnecessary loss of life resulting from this case. This sentencing marks the end of a tragic chapter for the families, leaving behind a sobering reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families.