Carrie Jones sentenced to life in prison
Carrie Jones, who was convicted of first degree murder, tampering with evidence and one count of accessory to felony, was sentenced to life in prison.
The charges stem from her role in the Aug. 4, 2022 death of 86-year old Gene Twiford in Laurel.
Carrie Jones was arrested on Dec. 16 for her role in the murder.
During her trial earlier this year, the prosecution argued that Carrie's actions leading up to the murder, couple with her actions and interviews afterwards, was enough to prove she encouraged her husband, Jason Jones, to carry out the killing.
In a related matter, on Thursday, a three judge panel met for a deliberation and mitigation hearing for Jones' husband, Jason.
In Cedar County the judges, two of whom were randomly selected from the state of Nebraska and Jason Jones' trial court judge, Bryan Meiser, listened to evidence and testimony on whether the circumstances warranted a possible death penalty for Jason Jones.
On Aug. 4, 2022 Gene Twiford, his wife, Janet and their 55-year old daughter, Dana Twiford, were shot and killed in their Laurel home. Also killed that same day was 53-year-old Michelle Ebeling. Both the Ebeling's and Twifords' homes were set on fire.
Jason Jones was arrested the following day and charged with the crimes.
His attorneys said Jason Jones was suffering from a mental health episode when he committed the murders and his close connection with his mother, which his attorney believes should grant him life in prison and not death.
The three judges will now determine whether Jones will be sentenced to death or spend life in prison. That ruling is expected to be delivered in April 2026.
Jason Jones was not present in the court room on Thursday and was represented solely by his attorneys.
