KDSN RADIO News
Second suspect in Earling woman’s murder pleads guilty
(Harlan, Iowa) – The second suspect charged in the July 31st shooting death of a woman in Earling has waived his rights and entered a plea of guilty to a Felony charge of Murder in the 1st Degree. According to online court records, 33-year-old William Joseph “Joe” Leal plead guilty in Shelby County District Court on Monday, Oct. 13th. His sentencing is set for Oct. 29th. On October 3rd, a woman charged as an Accessory in the death of 32-year-old Theresa Kenkel, of Earling, also entered a plea of guilty.
The trial for Leal and 35-year-old Ashley Elizabeth McWilliams had been set to begin November 4th. McWilliams will be sentenced for Nov. 17th.
Both subjects were arrested on August 1st, following the discovery of Theresa Kenkel’s body at a residence in Earling, when Deputies conducted a requested welfare check.
