Murder suspect Earl Guillemet pled guilty to amended charges in Christian Circuit Court on Monday for the shooting death of Dolores Hernandez in May 2023.
Guillemet was originally charged with murder, tampering with physical evidence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In Guillemet’s plea deal, Commonwealth’s Attorney Maureen Leamy shared that the murder charge was amended to first-degree manslaughter.
Leamy recommended a 15-year sentence for the manslaughter charge and 5-year sentences for both tampering with evidence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Christian County Circuit Judge John Atkins accepted the agreement and said the sentences will be served consecutively for a total of 25 years and denied probation.
Guillemet’s defense attorney, Ramon McGee requested to waive scheduling a separate sentencing date which Atkins accepted. Without a separate sentence hearing, Atkins invited Hernandez’s daughter and anyone else related to the victim to submit a victim impact statement which will play a role in any possible parole hearings.
McGee also requested for Guillemet to be temporarily released before reporting for sentencing in order to see his family. Leamy opposed the release saying he’s a danger to the community. Atkins denied McGee’s request and is instead allowing Guillemet’s family to have a two-hour contact visit with him.
Guillemet’s case was originally set for trial on June 30.