FAIRFAX, Ohio — A 13-year-old is facing additional charges, including premeditated aggravated murder, in relation to the death of a 64-year-old Fairfax woman.
According to Hamilton County Juvenile Court records, the teen now faces the following charges:
- Murder
- Aggravated murder (premeditated)
- Aggravated murder
- Murder – committing or attempting
- Aggravated burglary
- Felonious assault
The 13-year-old was initially charged with murder, but Fairfax police say additional charges may be added.
The charges stem from the death of Sheila Tenpenny, 64, on February 2.
Police say the teen suspect broke into Tenpenny’s Germania Avenue home. Tenpenny and the teen’s family were neighbours, according to authorities.
Dr. Lakshmi Kode Sammarco, Hamilton County Coroner, said the preliminary autopsy revealed Tenpenny had suffered head and neck trauma.
According to her brother’s 911 call, Tenpenny was found naked with a pillow over her head.
According to the police report, investigators discovered blood stains on Tenpenny’s bed and several bottles of cleaning supplies on the table next to him.
The teen’s defence team has entered a plea of deny.
Because he is 13, Ohio law prohibits the teen from being tried as an adult, but prosecutors are looking for ways to give him an adult sentence.
During a court hearing on February 19, the state filed a notice requesting a serious youthful offender (SYO) disposition sentence.
If the teen is determined to be a SYO at the end of the case, he will receive a sentence that combines juvenile and adult time.
The court ordered a competency evaluation for the 13-year-old because of his young age and lack of a criminal record.
The teen’s defence team requested his release from the juvenile detention facility. Judge Kari Bloom denied the request.
Bond, potential release, and a competency check-in will be discussed on March 5.
