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GoogleThat was the sentence Fred Thornton heard after the jury returned to the courtroom Friday afternoon.
Thornton has been on trial since Sept. 29, with the verdict coming shortly before 2 p.m. Friday at the Bourbon County Courthouse. Thornton was found guilty of attempted murder in the first degree as a result of his participation in the Sept. 15, 2008, incident in which Carol Keele was nearly beaten to death in her Bronson home. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 653 months, based on prior criminal history. Thorton was also found guilty of aggravated battery, violation of a court order, and criminal trespass.
"I believe in our jury system and the jury in this case listened to the evidence and made their decision based on the evidence," Bourbon County Attorney Terri Johnson said.
Thornton and his daughter, Laura Thornton, were living with Keele when she filed for a protection from abuse order on Sept. 15, 2008, so that the Thorntons would leave her home. Later that night, Fort Scott Police Department dispatchers received a call from a screaming woman, then two more calls from a male caller, believed to be Fred Thornton, saying, "You've got a dead (expletive deleted) out here. Come get it out of my house."
Laura Thornton was arrested on Oct. 21, 2008, for her involvement in the assault. She pleaded no contest to aiding and abetting aggravated battery, a severity level five person felony, after the original counts of aiding and abetting attempted murder in the first degree, aiding and abetting aggravated battery, and domestic battery were amended to the single charge of aiding and abetting aggravated battery. She received a 36-month probation sentence for the crime rather than the original 32-month jail sentence, which was suspended.
The sentencing of Fred Thornton has been scheduled for 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30. He has the right to appeal the jury's decision within 10 days of the sentencing.
Note: The nature of the Internet makes it impractical for our staff to review every comment. If you feel that a comment is offensive, please
I say lock him up!
I say lock him up!
Let's just hope the sentencing process doesn't fall through and not be severe enough.
Let's make sure that the "criminals" know that they can't get away with this stuff in Bourbon Co. Give him the max. 54 1/2 years? Oh yes! This was a premediated crime, he planned to do it. If we get tough, the criminals won't settle in Fort Scott. Maybe.
I think that the jury did a good job but I also know Carol Keele and I feel that she got what she deserves! I am an ex husband of hers and I could see how she pushed him to snap. Luckily for me I always walked away from her and her B.S. She is a liar and a coniving person.
I am Carol Keeles daughter. Not pretending to be just to write something.
I also feel the jury did a good job considering the evidence,testimony and the absolute belligerent behavior of the defendent during the trial.
Good for Ft Scott for not letting a crime like this to be hushed or swept under the rug.
As far as Carol getting what she deserved...That is a horrible thing to say. I personally for my own reasons am not as close to my mother as most mother-daughters are but I would not wish what happened to her on anyone. ANYONE!
No one deserves to have someone she is talking to on the internet show up at her house, take over her life, her money and abuse her mentally and physically. And to end it by stealing every dime she has..claiming it as his own then nearly beating her to death with an axe. That is horribly wrong beyond what words can express.
Weather or not Carol is the best person in the world in somes eyes is irrelevant. If you don't like the way your relationship is going..leave.
GOT WHAT SHE DESERVED!?!?!?!!?!? Wow, really? I'm sorry but I have been in an abusive relationship, and yes, just like any other woman I pushed buttons. We're good at that, but lets face it men...SO ARE YOU. How can you say that any woman deserves to be beaten? Especially by a man. That is disgusting. You say that you walked away? Good for you! If you honestly thought that she deserved it you would have done it yourself. WOW...
You know what, maybe someone should beat you within an inch of your life. Yes, I think that would probably change your mind.
Good point. No matter how much a person is pushed (if that part is true), they can always walk away.
The fact that Mr. Thornton REFUSED to walk away, was arrogant enough to believe that he was justified, and tried to make it sound like he was intoxicated when facts showed that he was not impaired.
It was proven that he did have a premeditated intent which means simply that his defense (if any) is null and void.
WHY DID THORTON'S DAUGHTER GET PROBATION? SHE SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED THE SAME PUNISHMENT AS HER DAD. ANYONE THAT CAN STAND BY AND WATCH SOMEONE GET BEATEN SO BADLY AND/OR HELP TO BEAT SOMEONE SO BADLY, DESERVES THE SAME PUNISHMENT. SHE NEEDS TO GO TO PRISON THE SAME AS HER "DADDY". MAYBE THEN SHE WOULDN'T BE SO QUICK TO HELP.
I would just like to start off by saying that the few days I was in Fort Scott for the trial, testifying for the prosecution, that your community is one you should be proud of. I can honestly say that it felt like I never left home. From the accommodating nature of the Sheriff's office and it's employees to the general public in which I was fortunate enough to meet made this task at hand much easier. To say that Ms. Keele got what she deserved is not only outlandish, but morally wrong. What my Dad did that night is unexcusable, and not only his actions towards Carol. His actions that night robbed his grandchildren of a grandfather. A father from a son. Like Carol's daughter said, why not walk away? Some questions will go unanswered and leave me wondering for my natural life. I think it would be good if the citizens of Fort Scott be sure to thank the Bourbon County Sheriff's Deputies and the Sheriff himself, Mr. Gray, for doing what they do in light of the economy and limited funds, and still they are providing exceptional services. Hopefully the next time I am in Kansas it will be for leisure, and I will be able to enjoy some of the famous catfishing I was told about.
Freds daughter did not stand by or help in any way and she was wrongfully accused in this whole mess.I was called the day after this all happened and Laura was visiting her father on her way down to where she lives now,she was certainly in the wrong place at the wrong time which gave others the oppertunity to accuse her of suchthings.. All over materialistic items, but we all have our own opinions on this case,and we also know that SATAN has a grip on this world, May God bless you all! amen
I would first like to start off by saying that I do not agree with what happened to Carol. I love my Dad very much but as many have stated he should have just walked away. I never in any way helped my Dad or was any part of this crime. I was in a bedroom with my husband and children. I wanted to make sure that MY family was safe. The reason why I took the plea was because I had been in jail for 8 months away from my babies and husband for a crime I took NO part in. I am suprised that so many are ignorant to belive such ridiculous lies. Common sense shows that if I would have done what I was accused of, I would've been struck by that same axe. I do not blame anyone for their lies or their way of life. I just pray that everyone involved in this horrible situation can move on and enjoy the remainder of their lives.
We are gratful that this did not get swept under the rug as so many abuse cases do. Maybe Ft Scott is getting it right finally.
I would not plea if i was innocent. Just saying. Obviously there was something they had or she wouldn't have pled. Oh well...one out of two aint bad...It will be interesting to see if she stays out of trouble. Three years is a long time, maybe the pending jail time if she screws up will be enough for her to change her ways.
ooo you make me so angry... laura is innocent put yourself in her shoes,the thought of being away from her kids again for something she didnt do ges she already gave 8 months of her life to the jail and was innocent why would she wait for a trial and the same could of happened to her again and she is out of trouble she is agreat mother and a great christian wife LEAVE HER ALONE!!!!
Some of those that no her would beg to differ. Ether way, we will see if she can stay out of trouble. Hopefuly this will keep her on the "righteous path". She knows she got away with one here. Seeing her dad locked up for a possible 54.5 years woud be enuff to scare anyone into gods arms.
Do not ever state what you would or would not do in a situation that you have never or probably will never be so unfortundate to be stuck in. You do not know the details or circumstances in anyone else's life. General rule. If the daughter was guilty of such a heinous crime and it was certain beyond a shadow of a doubt, then this judicial system in Ft. Scott that you all seem to hold to such a high esteem certainly would not have offered her such an "easy" plea. On top of already serving 8 months with out having a fair trial within the speedy trial bracket. (By the way, isn't that against one's constitutional rights?). We will all be judged by the most high some day so be careful when you are so quick to judge in this life. All of our sins are equal in God's eyes so we are all just as guilty as those of whom you accuse. Justice has been served, according to the American justice system ant that is that.
By the way, just to keep people honest, Thornton has not recieved the maximum sentance yet so be careful when you forecast like that. And also, if you do your research so not to be ignorant, it probably won't be hard for the daughter to stay out of trouble for 3 years, after all, her record was squeaky clean before all of this and not many of us can say the same about ourselves.
"He who is without sin cast the first stone.." God bless everyone involved and God speed your healing in everyway.
As you pointed out, I said POSSIBLE 54.5 years. And Laura was only in jale for 5 months. If 5 months seemed like 8, just imagine how long 3 years will seem for her.
I also pointed out some other helpful things. Maybe you should reread my comment.
And her record may have been "squeaky clean" prior to this, but does not mean she never did drugs or cheated on her husband, stole things etc. It just means that up until this point, she never got caught.
What in the world does that hearsay mumbo jumbo have to do with anything? In order to serve her time, then she has to break the law. Weather or not she's done those things is irrelevant, she hasn't been caught doing one of those things so yeah, I think she'll go 3 years just fine.
How does one's story change from helping Ms. Keele escap out the back dor to "I stayed in the bedroom and hid?" That is not hersay, that is straight from her mouth, as she was telling everyone she coud talk to how she helped Keele escap. Justice wont be served for her until the afterlife.
The hearsay, child, that I was referring to, was the irrelevant accusations that you were making about Miss Thornton. It's cute that mommy let you use her computer but I suggest she drive you to see a therapist to adress your anger and why you don't like this girl. Then maybe call her and say these things to her face, like a grown up, as this site is not a place for personal venting.
I agree with smiles81,God has his hand in everything whether we see or not.. laura is one of my closes friends and whether she did things in her past..she has turned to god (regarldless the reasoning)you should read Ezekial 18;22 God Bless all
I'm curious to know how this went from a discussion about a man who tried to murder someone to a discussion about a women who cheated on her husband. I'm sorry but it is the 21st century. She is not the first and certainly not the last person to commit adultry, if this is even true. Besides, what does that have to do with anything. Putting this woman's personal business on the internet is a pretty crappy thing to do. I assumed she was not married due to her last name, but whatever. What she did or did not do in her PERSONAL life is not anyone else's business. I'm sorry but that is the absolute WORST thing about Fort Scott. Everyone know's everything about everybody...and the broadcast it!!! Unbelievable.
Once again these comments have gotten off Topic. Regardless of someones past, it should not be a decision maker for punishment for a crime that someone is being tried for currently. The maximum sentence for my dad is 54.5 years, based on sentencing guidelines etc for the crime that he committed. Granted, not having a criminal record will probably reduce the time served, but it does not change the fact that he tried to kill Carol that night. I understand that this is a passionate topic in Fort Scott, but the fact is it is over. Dragging people through the mud or trying this case in this comment forum does not change the fact that what is done is done. I have repeatedly said that I do not agree with my Dad's actions that night, and I am sure that whatever the judge decides on for sentencing will be as fair as it can be based on the guidelines he has to follow when looking at everything before him.
As far as everyone knowing everyones business, it is a downside to small town living. But it still is not an excuse for ignorance. I am not ashamed to speak my mind on here, and I certainly have no problem putting my name on it. The people that have posted the negatives and other things are obviously the minority in Fort Scott, as I had the pleasure of dealing with many people when I was there and none of them acted like this. This even after learning who I was. It is to be expected when something like this occurs, but as far as I can tell everyone involved did their job, and there was a guilty sentence imposed. I think that should satisfy most of the community in Fort Scott. If you are going to speak things and throw random things out there, post your name and it will make it more believable. Once again, I support the guilty verdict, and I did what was asked of me by coming from Oregon and testifying against my dad. That is one lesson in honesty and moral aptitude that I challenge any of you to apply to your everyday living.
Thank God that this is America and we still have free speech. You have the right to post your name as we have the right not to for our own reasons, i.e. small town psychos. I did exactly as was stated above, left a comment. I was defending everyone involved. Not my fault that someone who doesn't like Miss Thornton decided to air her irrevelent opinions. Tried to shut him/her up and I did. I don't think it's right to air dirty laundry, especially when it has nothing to do with her charge. I am just a spectator of this case. Thought an unbiased opinion was needed as there has not been one thus far.
Thank you Chris for your comments. This is Carols daughter Teresa. I know this has had to be gut wrenching year for you as it has for everyone involved I am sure.
I for one am sick to death of the Laura topic. I could go on and on. I do understand she has people that love her,as we all do and will defend her to the end. We all have those people in our lives. Please don't get on here and state opinion as fact.
What happened here was terrible and I am sure most involved regret even being there that night. There was no wrong place, wrong time just passing through when you've been there a month. I am not going to list all the other errors in truth here. I was also not there that night and also had never met Laura. Fact.
I know that no one posting here had to wash the blood off their mothers hands,arms face and head while she lay in a coma. Nor did anyone here have to look at the woman who gave birth to them lie swollen and near death with axe marks in their head,and scares in her face where her jaw had come through near her cheekbone. Want to talk about horrible?
I am glad justice was served. I am grateful to Chris for doing the right thing and presenting what he knew and what evidence and history he had.
Please before there is any more arguing she said,she said over Laura I encourage you to order a court transcript if you are this passionate about it. People have to admit under oath the facts especially when the evidence is right there before them.
Most people are not going to tell people that love them all the details in something as horrible as this. No one want to think that someone they love could be involved in any way in something like this. Whether it be allowing it to happen or lying about it. Laura could very well have changed. If this isnt a kick it in the butt to straighten up your act I don't know what is. Could we please please just drop the Laura issue while we wait to see what the sentence is? Please?
And Ft Scott is a beautiful town with wonderful people. Gossip happens everywhere. Especially on the internet.
This is a public commenting site. People have freedom of speech. Regardless of the topic. The daughter is involved in the story and I felt the need to keep people from passing judyement as people state what they would and wouldn't do. With all due respect, if you don't like it, there are millions of other sites to browse on the internet. I've been following this story and as a public reader, I have the right to discuss with others. I've been respectful to all directly involved in the case. Once again, I have the right to discuss with others about the story.
I didnt say people couldnt talk. By all means talk away. I just thought the Laura topic was old and never going to be solved with all the bikering back and forth.Trying to keep the peace with a suggestion of searching the truth out instead of bashing and bickering. I'm all for intelligent conversations. I do however get annoyed by people who like to bicker with each post and poster.As far as I can tell there are only two people here who were even in the courtroom for any of the testimony but lots who want to express their opinions over hearsay.
And I am involved. That is true. As anyone would be if it was their mother. However I dont live there. Don't know Laura. As I have stated many times and like I said before I personally do not have the best relationship with the victim. But I do keep up on the story as I am not heartless. What I wanted and hoped to see was people talking about the case, the trial and the conviction. Not over and over banter About Laura. It's old already. And it just continuing to hurt people and I think enough hurt has gone here. On all sides.
There was a long time that most things, drugs,abuse,dometic violence..was all very hush hush in Ft Scott and in Bourbon County. Like I said in my first post. I am so happy this is no longer the case
To the families involved, you are in our prayers, as well as Fred is in our prayers (yes, I really mean that!). We must remember to do as Christ did, "Love the sinner, but hate the sin". There are questions (and statements) here that may never be answered (or discussed), so let's just keep to the facts of the case, and not the people and their lives, OK??
Amen, I agree. However, once again, there are many other sites to look at. This article is the same and will remain the same. You will learn nothing new. If you come to the site to read the comments then you subject yourself to whatever the people say. If you are hurting, then this is not the site to visit. The public are discussing the case by the means offered, (this site). You are not the internet police so, if we could get on with discussing, that would be great. If not, I've said what I want to say unless someone wants to debate somemore??
Dear Smiles..read your posts. You have argued both sides..Name called and you change your position from post to post. You have also judged then told others not to. You have told people what they are and are not allowed to say. Then you turn around and tell people it's not allowed. Pot stirring plain and simple.
No, I have not. Do not fabricate at my expense. I simply made a comment suggesting we don't pass jugement or say what we would or would not do (take a plea) in someone else's situation. As I have seen in my years on this earth, just because someone takes a plea or pleads no contest, it does not mean that they are actually guilty. People do things for reasons we do not know so we should not assume. Then, I was presented with irrelevent jugements about the person I was talking about. Then presented with pure immaturity that I called out. Then was attacked for having an opinion, apparently. Once again, I have the right to voice whatever I want to say and if you want to call it stirring the pot, then you are just as guilty. However, I think that you would not object if I was defending whomever you wanted me to. Once again, don't read if you don't like what is said. I suggest that the people involved do not read this site as it will be uncomfortable to you and you will seem more accessable to the public and to direct ridicule. Like celebrities, they don't go trying to beat up or telk off peple who write things about them. So, read my comments again. And the more you people reveal themselves, the more I like and understand this Thornton girl, and I'm certain that others woukd agree.
If people really want to know the statements made that evening and what happend that nite as well as what happend in the court room, you can access that. It is all public knowlege. Just like you can get a police report of any insident that happend, you can see who made what statements to police that nite and what they were, and then decide for yourseleves. It sheds a whole new lite on everything.
On the suggestion of getting the police records and court records. I agree. Everyone should in order to have somewhat of an educated opinion. Completely agreed.
I was in the bar the day of the incident where the Thornton's were drinking. I never heard Miss Thornton say anything to the effect that she wanted harm done to the victim. I have kept up on this case and I did get the police reports. Miss Thornton's statements have not changed whereas the victim's first 3 statements did not even mention Miss Thornton's name, FACT. I agree that it sheds a whole new light on everything and I encourage other people to order the statements as well. I know the victim very well and I don't think that this should have ever happened to her or anyone else for that matter. I'm just glad that our community is so strong and that our sherrif's department, local PD, and State PD does such a wonderful job at keeping our town and the people in it safe. Thank you.
It is to my knowledge that Keele never made mention of Miss Thornton's involvement in her first couple statements to the police. Dig that up on your public records.
As well as the fact, (so glad to have someone on board), that people were saying that the Thorntons were at the bar getting drunk all that day before, and now they say they were stone cold sober and this was premeditated. The only inconsistancy regarding the daughter is on the victims side. Darn shame that her record is tainted because of it.
Public Record. Pubic Record. Read the transcripts. Then you can go argue with whoever gave you all the gossip that was so obviously incorrect. I am sure they will be very embarrased that they put you in a situation where you could make such a fool of yourself in such a know it all like manner!
I read the public records and I know the truth. Your the one that sounds uneducated and biased. If you had read the reports then you would know what they say. Does ignorance really run this rampid in my town? I understand that your mad over the situation but facts are facts and BS is just that!!! I think that you are going off gossip and you should be ashamed. I know the victim and I am very happy with her recovery. It does not change the facts about the case and the statements that were made (or NOT made about miss Thornton). Your the one that should be embarresed, cause you sound like a fool. I will be praying for you.
I have worked on this case since the morning after it came in. There is so much wrong being said here. So so wrong. So very Ft Scott and very unfortunate.This will be my only statement.
The Court record has not even been made available to the parties involved yet. As far as the reports that were taken by all parties that first night. People were intoxicated,injured,confused and scared. No other statements taken for trial would have been made to the public until after the trial.
No one would have been able to order reports after each statement someone made.
Sometimes working for this town makes me feel like it's not worth it.
LMAO..Well, so much for having the transcripts, ehh smiles? Oh Wait, you must have gotten them early based on your extreme knolege of the facts. hehe
Roflmao! I never said anything about transcripts. I suggest you have mom get your eyes checked too! And ask your English teacher to check your spelling before you submit your comments.
Heh....and according to the comments section there are only 5 here. Wow...now quit being hitler and let those speak their peace!!
If this person is guilty...fine they are guilty. If not then fine as well.
Really Fort Scott Tribune, stop dictating this section.