Lawrence Schanda, 51, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of his 20-year-old niece, Jessi Wilfong. Schanda was found guilty of first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and tampering with physical evidence in a felony prosecution. His sentencing took place on Monday, February 10, following his conviction in January.
According to the Cape Girardeau County Clerk’s Office, Schanda’s sentencing includes life imprisonment without parole for the murder charge, 15 years for armed criminal action, and seven years for tampering with evidence. The sentences will be served consecutively in the Missouri Department of Corrections.
Schanda, along with Teresa Baumgartner, was charged in connection with Wilfong’s death. Authorities discovered Wilfong’s body buried in a barn on a property near the residence of Schanda and Baumgartner. Baumgartner, who is also facing charges related to the case, has a case review hearing scheduled for Monday, March 3.
The Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation, which resulted in the discovery of Wilfong’s remains. Further details regarding Baumgartner’s involvement and legal proceedings are expected to be addressed during her upcoming court review.
