Mississippi Elder Receives 30-Year Sentence for Sex Refusal Shooting

The quiet streets of Hernando, Mississippi, became the backdrop for a crime of shocking violence, leading to a severe 30-year sentence for a 78-year-old man. Steven Robertson faces spending his remaining years behind bars after a DeSoto County jury convicted him on two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The conviction stems from a harrowing incident where Robertson shot a woman in the leg after she refused his demand to disrobe and have sex with him.

According to the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, the attack escalated when Robertson’s own son attempted to intervene and disarm him. “When his son attempted to intervene and take the gun away, he also fired shots at his son,” stated District Attorney Matthew Barton in a press release. While the exact date of the shooting wasn’t specified in the official announcement, the recent sentencing brought the case back into the public eye.

How Does Age Impact Sentencing for Violent Crimes?

The case raised complex questions about justice and age. Despite Robertson’s advanced years, Circuit Court Judge Celeste Wilson delivered a stern sentence: two consecutive 15-year terms, totaling 30 years. Prosecutor Barton emphasized the finality of the punishment for the elderly defendant: “At 78 years old, this is effectively a life sentence for Mr. Robertson, who will live the rest of his life in a striped jumpsuit.” This highlights the DeSoto County justice system’s stance that the severity of the crime outweighs considerations of the perpetrator’s age. Assistant District Attorney Ben Weathers prosecuted the case, securing the conviction based on evidence gathered by the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department following a frantic 911 call.

The details of the crime resonated deeply, prompting strong reactions. Commenting on the District Attorney’s social media post announcing the sentencing, one individual, claiming past experience as a dispatcher, wrote: “One of the wildest 911 calls I took in my time as a dispatcher was this call. I’m glad this guy is being held accountable and getting the punishment he deserves.” The identities of the female victim and Robertson’s son have not been publicly released. Robertson is now in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. No information about a prior criminal record was disclosed, and officials have stated no motive beyond the initial sexual demand has been revealed.

District Attorney Barton underscored his office’s unwavering commitment: “Our office takes violent crime seriously in DeSoto County, and we will continue to hold offenders fully accountable when they endanger others.” The 30-year sentence handed down to Steven Robertson serves as a stark reminder that violent acts, regardless of the perpetrator’s age, carry profound consequences within the Mississippi justice system. This case underscores the critical importance of community safety and the legal system’s role in protecting vulnerable individuals.

Must Know

1. What was Steven Robertson convicted of?
   Steven Robertson, 78, of Hernando, Mississippi, was convicted on two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He shot a woman who refused his sexual demands and also fired shots at his son who tried to intervene.
2. What sentence did Robertson receive?
   Circuit Court Judge Celeste Wilson sentenced Robertson to two consecutive 15-year prison terms, resulting in a total 30-year sentence. District Attorney Matthew Barton stated this is effectively a life sentence given Robertson’s age.
3. Where did the crime occur?
   The crimes occurred in Hernando, located within DeSoto County, Mississippi. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department investigated the incident following a 911 call.
4. Who prosecuted the case?
   The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ben Weathers from the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, led by District Attorney Matthew Barton.
5. What was the motive given for the shooting?
   According to the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, the primary motive disclosed was Robertson’s demand for sex from the female victim. When she refused, he shot her. No additional public motive has been released.
6. Where is Robertson now?
   Following his conviction and sentencing, Steven Robertson is currently in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections to serve his 30-year sentence.