Jury Finds Stewart Guilty of 2nd-Degree Murder
Lead prosecutor Peter Strickland meets with media following the guilty verdict in the Pinelake murder trial. Robert Stewart got a minimum sentence of 131 years in prison for eight second-degree murders. Photo by John Chappell.
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Robert Kenneth Stewart is guilty of eight counts of second degree murder in the March 2009 shooting spree at Carthage nursing home. On each conviction he was sentenced to serve a minimum of 189 months and a maximum of 236 months. His sentences are to run sequentially – one after another – so, all in all, his prison sentence on eight murders added to other related convictions will run between 131 and 175 years.
His attorneys gave notice of appeal.
After more than 10 hours of deliberation over two days, his jury decided Stewart, 47, is responsible for shooting to death seven elderly nursing home residents and a nurse at Pinelake Health & Rehabilitation Center.
The jury in the Pinelake murder trial did not convict the defendant of first-degree murder, which could have carried a death penalty. Instead, shortly after one o’clock Saturday afternoon they found Stewart guilty only of second-degree murder.
The jury convicted him for gunning down Louise De Kler, 98, John Goldston, 78, Lillian Dunn, 89, Bessie Hedrick, 78, Jesse Musser, 88, Margaret Johnson, 89, as well as Pinelake nurse Jerry Avant, 39, and 75-year-old Tessie Garner, who both survived but died later at the hospital.
No jury members indicated a wish to discuss their deliberations at the end of the day. They may have used diminished capacity or voluntary intoxication as a rationale to support second rather than first-degree murder.
Both defenses were offered. It was clear they did not agree with the primary defense position that Stewart was acting automatically in a zombie-like state brought on by Ambien and other drugs. That could have resulted in a not guilty verdict.
Prosecutor Peter Strickland told Senior Resident Superior Court Judge James M. Webb that family members would like to speak before he pronounced sentence.
A number of them had been having a late breakfast at Pete's with former Moore County Clerk of Court Catherine Graham when word came that the jury had reached a verdict.
"Go!" Graham said. "I'll get this."
She paid the bill as families headed back to the courthouse.
First to take the stand was Connie Evans, who told the court her mother Bessie Hedrick was practically everybody’s mom in Chatham County.
“If you were from Chatham County, she had dozens of kids,” Evans said. “She was everybody's mother. At 50 she went to Sandhills Community College and got her degree in human resources. Her job was helping handicapped adults.
The last time she saw her mother she heard something strange, a strange question.
“Who got shot?” her mother asked. She told her daughter her name and picture were going to be in the newspaper.
She told the court her mother dreamed she’d gone home, and all her things were being sold.
“I know where my mother is,” Evans said. “I’ve not missed a day in this for two and a half years.”
She looked across at Stewart, who’d kept his head down since the verdict, only peering up from time to time.
“Your mother is sitting behind you,” she said, looking directly at the man who killed her mother. “You’re the one. You’re the one.”
She was followed to the stand by Janet Allen. Her father was John Goldston, shot to death from less than two feet away as he sat in his wheelchair watching television at Pinelake Health and Rehabilitation Center in Carthage.
“No one who has not been through this has any idea of the impact on you,” Janet Allen said. “You can’t even watch the news the same way.”
She remembered the last time she and her dad spoke.
“The Thursday before he was killed on Sunday I came home and there was a message,” she said. “On the recorder he said ‘Janet, give me a call when you can.’ He probably hadn’t called me in two years. He asked when I was coming. I said, ‘I will see you on Monday.’ He said, ‘I just want to tell you everything is OK.’ He had his mind, but his body was slow.”
Goldston and De Kler had been best friends, lived across the hall from each other, she said.
Linda Feola – De Kler’s daughter – spoke next.
“I wish I could be half the mother she was,” she said. “She was the rock. Nothing superseded it to her dying day. She was in Pinelake for rehab, and was due to be discharged the day after this man shot her.”
De Kler lived on her own in New Jersey until she had a stroke at the age of 94, her daughter said. She was born and raised in Holland and came to the United States at the age of 17 with 12 brothers and sisters and their parents.
“She was admitted Mar. 6, 2009, on her 98th birthday,” she said. “They had her walking on her own with a cane.”
She was to have been evaluated for a return from Pinelake to assisted living at Tara Plantation, also in Carthage.
“She bowled until she was 94 – with a 150 average! – and delivered meals-on-wheels, sold her crafts at shops in the area,” she said. “It is, like a two and a half year funeral. It doesn’t end, because you knew this was coming up. I hope we all find peace. I saw her on the Friday before the shooting. She looked beautiful, had had visitors from New Jersey stopping to see her. She was joking around, so good. Sunday, that man killed her like she was a roach. I’ve heard he was ‘saved’ – huh uh. Not in this world.”
De Kler had been born in Amsterdam, and lived a vigorous life well into her nineties, never taking the elevator in her building but going up all five flights of stairs. She loved to play pool, too, taking delight in sharking the 70-year-old youngsters around the pool table.
“She even had her own cue stick,” Feola said.
Tessie Garner's daughter Melissa Thompson particularly remembers her mother's generosity.
"You never left her house without her giving you something," she said. "She always planted a lot more in her garden than she could use so she would have vegetables to give to others. She loved growing flowers. She loved sewing, sewing dresses for her granddaughters.
Thompson’s sister, Bernice Presnell – her voice trembling – said it feels like some part of you has been taken away that you can't ever get back again.
She had visited her mother just the week before on her lunch hour, and her mother reminded her to get back to work, not be late.
Lillian Dunn – who had the same first name as her murdered mother-in-law Lillian Dunn – spoke for her family.
“We loved going to yard sales together,” she said. “She liked making things. She loved her family.”
Dunn, wearing the red and white Sunday dress her daughter-in-law got for her, was waiting just by the nurses’ station when Stewart rounded the corner after shooting De Kler. She was the second person to die that day.
Jesse Musser’s daughter Holly Foster remembers having the sudden impulse to visit her father the week before. She and her husband got home a little before six when a thought struck.
“I thought ‘I need to go see Daddy’ suddenly,” she said. “I told my husband, ‘I need to go this evening. I just need to go tonight.’ He said go on, he’d fix a sandwich or something.”
Her mother suffered from Alzheimer’s and was in the TLC unit at Pinelake where it was upsetting for her to have visitors, Foster said. She was able to see her father, not realizing it would be for the last and final time.
“He was my Daddy,” Foster said. “He was 42 years old when I was born. I was planned for years, but I never came along. We were very close. I have one sister, and they were close, too.”
Jill DeGarmo, Avant’s fiancée looked at a picture of him as a child with his sister and their mother. Another shot showed him as a little boy in his football outfit, she said. Other pictures showed him on a fishing trip.
“He loved fishing; he loved it,” she said. “Him and my boys went fishing, went camping every summer.”
She looked at Avant’s LPN certificate.
“He was two weeks away from getting his R.N.,” she said. “He studied all the time. His R.N. meant so much to him. He wanted to help other people.”
The certificate and photographs were entered into evidence. Avant’s sister and father had both attended most sessions of the trial.
“We lost someone in our lives that we loved, that was caring and loving, even in the last moments of his life,” she said. “He didn’t complain of the pain, and you could see the pain in his face. He didn’t leave this earth with hatred in his heart for anyone. Our preacher was trying to get into the hospital to be with him the day Robert Stewart murdered him. None of us are perfect, but what divides us are people with a heart and a soul.”
Avant’s father, Jerry Avant, Sr., who has been in poor health, has had a hard time, she said. So has his sister, Frances Green.
“Her 16-year-old daughter was killed in an accident within a month after Jerry,” DeGarmo said. “This tore her up. It devastated so many of us. The only person I’ve not seen any emotion or caring is Robert Stewart.”
Strickland asked that sentences for all convictions run consecutively, 189 to 236 months on each murder, 100 to 129 months on each assault with a deadly weapon charge, on Michael Cotten and on Justin Garner.
Defense attorney Jonathan Megerian said his client doesn't remember what happened, but would very much like to go back and prevent it, and is full of remorse.
"Stand up Mr. Stewart," Webb said.
He sentenced Stewart in the De Kler conviction to serve 189 months minimum and a maximum of 236 months. In the next case, that of the murder of Margaret Johnson, Webb imposed the same sentence to run at the expiration of the De Kler sentence.
Soft sighs of relief from family members indicated they realized Stewart's sentences would all run consecutively.
"This was a most unusual case," Webb said, speaking to the jury. "It was the most unusual case in my 34 years."
He thanked them for the inconvenience entailed in their travel each day from and to Stanly County, explaining how a motion for change of venue led to his decision to bring jurors from another county while keeping the trial in Carthage.
Outside, after court, Strickland said he was disappointed in the verdict.
“I just apologized to the families for not being able to get the verdict we hoped to get,” he said.
Some of the family members wanted the death penalty.
“Probably more than some," Strickland said. “They are getting solace in the fact that he was sentenced to more than 131 years. My math is not the greatest on this, but probably more than 131 years.”
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Comments
Emerald 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ok everyone. The message given here is you can drink and abuse prescription drugs and kill people. Then blame the doctors. Then we will house you and feed you and whatever other perks our prisoners get. Thats justice??? What a shame... I feel for the families involved.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
How is a lifetime in prison NOT punishment for one's crimes? I don't get how 1st-degree murder & the death penalty are the ONLY "just" punishment.
Explain, please.
Emerald 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I never mentioned the "death penalty." If killing 7 helpless elderly, and a nurse doesn't warrant first degree murder, I'm not sure if anything does. I realize either way he will spend the rest of his life in prison.
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
THANK YOU! :)
sfavela 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This is a disgrace. SECOND degree???? Lesson learned: there is NO justice for victims!!!
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
How is the rest of his life in prison NOT "justice"?
Why is it that the only "justice" available is a death sentence?
Ever been to prison? How would u know that death is the only punishment if u haven't been?
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
WHY DOES IT MATTER? Once he killed all those people....how is it justice to allow him to enjoy himself for free yet in a cage? Who cares how the prisoners feel THEY CHOSE to do the crime that put them in there or in the position of death or whatever punishment they get. But how is it justified for all of those families? He obviously didn't seem to care that he killed them that he took lives so why not take his...he took 8. He deserves hell.
mooremedic 8 months, 3 weeks ago
How in the heck this wasn't premeditated, therefore first degree murder baffles the heck out of me...it's a shame people don't even have the guts to give the death sentence to someone who was caught redhanded and with no way to be innocent.....
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
189x8=1512 +200 months on the other charges= 1712 months. 142.6 years minimum. In Central Prison, a place not known for "perks."
Just sayin'.
Emerald 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I haven't lived there but free food, free shelter, free medical...sounds pretty perky...for a big fat lazy guy...probably sounds pretty good vs.death. It wouldn't appeal to you or I but I'm sure he is rather pleased. I realize he will be there until he dies. You didn't have to add the years up. I just don't think justice was served.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I've seen the inside of Central. Better than death? Arguable.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Amen.
Don't know what anybody's talking about when they say, or imply, that prison isn't punishment.....
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This pig will get better health care than anyone writing these comments! All at our expense.If you are so gung ho about no death penalty, please pay my share of his costs from your pocket!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This pig will get better health care than anyone writing these comments!
Says more about the American health care system than about the criminal justice one.
Bigguy 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Maybe living with what he did is harsher than putting him out of his misery. I can't say that know, but if this case did not merrit the Death Penalty what does?
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
It happens when a jury doesn't want to convict of the necessary degree of murder to warrant the "ultimate" penalty.
A lifetime in prison, w/0 chance for parole, IS harsher punishment than the death penalty is, AND saves the taxpayers a LOT of $$ in the bargain.
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
how in the world do we save money. the money thats given keeps them alive and well in prison.
Bflat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
NOTE: "His attorneys gave notice of appeal," (2nd paragraph.)
buddysmith 8 months, 3 weeks ago
thats because the attorneys want to continue to bill the taxpayers for porky's defense, thats why it went to trial and no plea deal reached beforehand. for years the attorneys will continue to bill the taxpayers for his appeals, porky is a cash cow for them man, and they will ride that cow until it is nothing more than hamburger!!!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So sad and so true! My taxes will buy his attorneys their next Lexus. Whoopee!
ch28327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So is prison designed to protect us from murderers or for retribution?
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
A very good question, and one that's been argued for years now.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Prison is designed to keep malefactors separated from society so they can no longer harm anyone.
It is also to punish the criminal by depriving him/her of his/her freedom. "Privileges" are few, if any, & the life is a hard one. The criminal gets to live w/what he's done to get there for the rest of his life, when sentenced to life, as this guy has been.
blueoyster57 8 months, 3 weeks ago
too bad old sparky is still not in use.........they would need a large one though......but liberals don't believe in the death penalty........they always show compassion for criminals!......the death penalty is for those like this man who have earned it......
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I don't believe in the death penalty, & if I'm a liberal, then my name is Mother Goose.
I believe that a life sentece w/0 possibility of parole, or a sentence of so many years that s/he will never be released, is a far harsher & worse punishment than death would ever be. I'd rather a criminal suffer the life of prison every day than get the easy way out & be put to death by the state.
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
yeah its the easy way out but then he still gets the easy way out because he gets to hang out with all the other guys that did the same things he did and make friends and eat and work out and do everything for free. Either way seems easy. and yeah itd really suck to have to sit in there the rest of your life but really....hell get used to it and it will be second nature. Sitting in prison still isnt enough and neither is death. Now....maybe if the death penalty consisted of putting him in a cage in the desert with no food or water....it doesnt seem possible to get used to that...
skylinefirepest 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So let's see...he didn't know what he was doing BUT...he got in his truck and drove to Pinelake looking for his estranged wife...he carried two guns and a quantity of ammo...he shot people who couldn't defend themselves indiscriminately...once shot by Justin he obeyed Justin's order to lay on the floor...he did all that without knowing what he was doing!! Even Dusty couldn't have defended him more successfully, I reckon. He got the fair trial Dusty said we should give him...he just got a more fair decision than he deserved!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Even Dusty couldn't have defended him more successfully, I reckon
That sounds suspiciously like a compliment, if a somewhat backhanded one.
He got the fair trial Dusty said we should give him
Thanks as well for the credit, but it's not original with me. It's in the Constitution.
proudmom83 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I don't think those are compliments Dusty.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Just trying to stay positive here.
proudmom83 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I admire you for that : )
justjoe 8 months, 3 weeks ago
While we're all puzzling over this, let's all thank John Chappell for an outstanding job. This is the best reporting I've seen in The Pilot in 20+ years.
LeeMcGraw 8 months, 3 weeks ago
yes, a great job John!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Great reporting, down to the last bloody details. As for the Pilot, DID WE REALLY HAVE TO LOOK AT HIS DISCUSTING VILE FACE EVERY DAY SET INTO EVERY COLUMN??? What was that all about! It was stupid and set the tone for some other murderous moron to do something similar so they could be famous with their face in the paper everyday! I think every criminal should have their name and face banned from the news, why should they become famous for such terrible acts????
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ok first off yes he killed people however, can you honestly sit on a panel of jurors and vote to have some one get the death sentence? That make you just as guilty of killing someone as he was of killing all of these victims. The big thing to remember is he is serving his time in prison for the rest of his life. Don't judge some one, its not our place to judge him its Gods place. I am sorry for the lost the victims families have, and I am sorry for his family for the lost and hardship that they have to go through. People on here always look at things in the wrong way, untill you experinced having a loved one in trouble and been in this place you will change your views about how you view the justice system, detention system, and prison. Its not a free ride like you guys think....so lay off!!!!!! Prayers go out to all of those involved.....remember its not our place to judge nor pass judgement so lay off the comments of "he should get the death sentence", if this was your son or daughter would you want them to get the death sentence and we all know your honest answer to the question is no!
blueoyster57 8 months, 3 weeks ago
a person like you would FORGIVE this man.....you really are a sorry sight....and sick too
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Jesus Christ not only forgave those who were nailing Him to the Cross, He also PRAYED for them.
InGodWeTrust seems to be of the same mindset; if he is a Christian, he's only doing what his Lord wants him to do.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
And God hates evil by casting Satan (Lucifer) in the pit until the second coming. Evil has no place in this world. Too much of it now...we can give God a helping hand every now and then....
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Again not one person has answered my question....if this was your son or daughter would you want them to get the death punishment? People call the jury weak, they say lets give God a helping hand, but if this was your loved one your views are and don't say they will they will change and your view on God, the justice system, and every thing will change. You are the weak, your the one that can't look outside the box and see the real picture. Talk the talk all you want, but when it comes down to it you couldn't do it. If you was one of jury would you want to know your responsible for killing a human being, the Bible says not to kill, you would have blood stained hands for the rest of your life if you said give him death. Also would you want to be one of those people who had to kill him however way it may be injection, etc, again blood stained hands. Your the weak, the strong are those that forgive and let God deal with it. Giving God a helping hand is playing God and trying to be God, God doesn't want that.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I think the King James version says we shall not commit murder. Didn't Moses kill one of the taskmasters? Didn't God command fathers to kill son's? Didn't God challenge mankind to resist evil? Didn't Sampson massacre thousands with the jaw bone of an ass? Robert Stewart is evil - period. God will deal with his soul in due time unless he becomes a jail house preacher and finds redemption. In the short term, he shouldn't be allowed to take another breath here on earth...just like the rest who rape, murder, and torture innocent victims. Just like the piece of sh** that raped and murdered the 4 year old girl in a Sanford motel. Then threw her body in a ditch like she was trash. God forgive me, but I would legally put a bullet between his eyes and never have a second thought!
proudmom83 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Perhaps you would feel differently if one of your family members was one of the innocent victims killed that day.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
What, & where, does REVENGE get you, or anybody?
PLENTY of victims' survivors do NOT want the death penalty for their loved ones' murderer. Retribution in the form of the rest of the criminal's life in prison is sufficient for them.
Why isn't it for YOU?
proudmom83 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Its not a matter of revenge, mine or anybody elses, it is a matter of having to take responsibilty for your actions and knowing that there are consequences. Stewart was of enough sound mind to pack his car with not one but two guns and the correct ammunition for both, he was sound enough to drive himself to the nursing home, sound enough to know that his ex-wife was working , sound enough to shoot at her car before going into the nursing home so when exactly did the influence of the prescription meds kick in ??
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I am guessing by your screen name your a mother....if Stewart was your son would you want death to be his punishment, would you want him to be killed for what he did or would you want him to serve life in prison? Give the answer thats in your heart.....not a false answer.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
InGodWeTrust, I'm glad to see there are Christians who continue to walk the walk, even when that's emotionally difficult or unpopular.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Well people let others influence them, all the while that haven't gotten that wake up call by God telling them to listen and let him be in charge. Again if this was your son, daughter, husband, wife, mother, father could you say "give my son the death sentence" we all know the answer is no.
ch28327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Christians and liberals make good companions at times like this.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Christians and liberals make good companions at times like this.
I'm fine with that.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
U don't have to b a liberal to b against the death penalty, pal.
I'm conservative & Republican, & am a death-penalty opponent.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Glad to hear it. Maybe we should amend that to "Christians and liberals and even some conservatives."
peacemaker 8 months, 3 weeks ago
"Like"
justjoe 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If it was not our place to judge, why do we have courts and talk of laws and justice.You can quote Bible verses till Kingdom Come about what happens to his "soul"- good, let God take care of that. But we'll just put his murderous body in a cage where it belongs until that day comes. And I'm probably more "liberal" than Dusty and can say that!
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank you!
Couldn't have said it better myself! Let him serve the rest of his days locked up & exit prison flat on his back, on a gurney, toes pointing up. He will die alone there, no family around his death-bed; they will be summoned to claim his cold, stiff corpse from the morgue. Prison IS real punishment.
t4perkins 8 months, 3 weeks ago
SECOND degree murder...WOW! APPEALING the sentence...WOW! OUR justice system...WOW!
Bigguy 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I am a liberal, I do believe that this case warrented the death penalty! If people like him, that Green River Killer, that guy from Wisconson or Jeff Dahmer do not recieve the ultimate punishment, then who does? I also doubt that it was a bunch of bleeding heart liberals on the jury in Carthage. Too many times the Death Penalty is given to defendants who cannot afford proper representation.
clbvpm 8 months, 3 weeks ago
He had the best representation and expert witnesses our tax dollars could buy!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
And so did the State.
buddysmith 8 months, 3 weeks ago
maybe we will luck up and have porky assigned to a cellmate like jeff dahmer had. i still say the guy that beat dahmer to death with the barbell should have been paroled and compensated. he did something the people of wisconsin could not through the court system, he served justice to dahmer!!!
wbearp 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thoughts and prayers to the victims and families. They have had to go through more than I can imagine. I hope they can now begin healing and know that the community will never forget them.
howcanusaythat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This man has gotten exactly what he deserves--to die in prison. Is a harsher punishment than death would be. If readers researched just what life w/o parole is like in prisons these days, they wouldn't b crying for the death penalty anytime someone is murdered.
blueoyster57 8 months, 3 weeks ago
all these comments about how hard it is in prison........how do you people know? You get 3 meals a day....you can workout.......you get cable t.v......you don't have to work....sounds tough.......now maybe if it was a turkish prison........then it would be bad
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
How do I know? I've seen the inside of Central, and I'm thinking someone like you would be crying for your mama within five minutes.
proudmom83 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Too bad this format isn't like facebook - I need the "like" button.
peacemaker 8 months, 3 weeks ago
"Like"
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
LIKE
ch28327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
and your experience in prison is exactly what? it seems we should be afraid of YOU, as much as you advocate violence as retribution...
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Not all prisons serve 3 meals a day. I know of one in Arizona who only feeds twice a day - they get the minimum calorie allotment required, but only get it in two meals a day. Less fights, etc in the dining hall. I also know of some states that require the prisoner's family to put money in an account to pay for the prisoner's medical coverage and luxury items (i.e. cigarettes, magazines, candy, snacks, etc.). Not every thing is paid for by the taxpayer. I don't know how the system works here in North Carolina - maybe we ought to look at that and make the prisoner/family foot the bill for some of the "perks".
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Just wait until the Gold Bar Hilton is completed in Carthage...take a tour and see what your tax-dollars are supporting. Inmates will no longer have to leave for medical treatment, the doctors will make house calls in the new medical clinic. O' well it's them or us who have quality care and good housing.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Guess you don't know what your talking about...medical care isn't free nor is dental, phone calls aren't free, nothing is free to them, except meals and the meals are lacking there of. As far as housing have you actually been to the detention center in Moore County, guess not no bed just metal to sleep on, no pillow, just a cruddy blanket, the meals are not to their dietary needs unless medical reasons. Clothes except certain items are provided by family, as well as other items. Inmates don't get the care you think they do, they get abused by detention officers, and other inmates, and not much of any thing is done about it. You "think" its a Gold Bar Hilton, guess what your wrong hardly any bars there Toda. I think you need to educate yourself on what prison and jail is really like before posting about it. Do your homework, also why your at it talk to the families of some inmates or prisoners ask them to tell you what its really like. Tax dollars aren't supporting as much as you think. Also did you know there is no government programs set up specially for families of inmates or prisoners, only thing out there is what Social Service offers and it isn't much, its harder to ride the system than you think, and most programs have such long waiting list or closed out during most of the year, so before people on here spout off about the free ride go get a real look at it. I pray for you people, you just don't know till you been there or been there for someone that has to go through this.
mvbs 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Guess they should have thought about that before they committed the crime that put them there. It should not be our job to make sure they are comfortable.
mooremedic 8 months, 3 weeks ago
woman, you are delusional.....I don't think you've ever been inside a jail either....the inmates get great care, their healthcare is FREE, the jail here as pretty decent food, the inmates wear overalls or pants and shirt that is provided by the county and there certainly isn't any abuse by the officers....now the officers get abused but I guess that's a different story. And they all sleep on mattresses with blankets provided....i'm sure the sheriff would give you a tour if you asked.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The officers at Moore County jail abuse inmates period! Of course your a medic, probaly married or related to one of the people working there since all you guys medics, officers, and police seem to be on the same side and would never tell the truth if you had too.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
IF YOU CAN'T DO THE TIME DON'T DO THE CRIME! You are probably being fed a load of crap by who ever you know in jail. Sorry it happened to someone you know, they should have thought of the punishment BEFORE they did what ever they did to get there! Just ask God to care for them and all will be well right?
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Freedom in Truth Prison Ministries.....knowing first hand what a inmate, prisoner, and their families go through.
mooremedic 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Not married or related to anyone working at the jail, and yes we are on the same side......we're all committed to providing the best public service to the citizens of Moore County that we can, period. No one is abused in the jail, I take prisoners out of there all the time, the only ones doing any abusing is the other inmates.....
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Medical is not free, I have a son in prison and in order for him to get medical care I have to fund his account, and also prisoners are people also, and GOD is not happy with all this disgusting talk about this man who needs prayer just like anyone else
mooremedic 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Please tell us what he pays for medical care then....you may be paying part of the fees for the inhouse MD and RN that come in but if your son were to get taken to the Emergency Room for a heart attack or whatever, the county pays for it.....
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So why is your son in prison? Did he commit a crime that violated a state statue? When I worked with the NC Division of Prisons inmates were given free treatment. It sounds like your son is running game* on you and paying off some gambling debts. I used to transport to Central and Harnett Youth Center, and Polk Youth Center where all CYO's and RYO's were transported for dental treatment. No charges.
Bflat 8 months, 3 weeks ago
IGWT..Toda is referring to the NEW JAIL that is currently under construction as the Gold Bar Hilton. It will feature federal sized cells instead of standard, will be 4 stories tall and costing $$$multimillions. If you haven't been up McNeill St lately, what you see on that side is the new sheriff dept and public safety which is 3 floors, but the JAIL will be 4 stories behind the existing jail. It can expand up to 600 beds.
prfxshn 8 months, 3 weeks ago
How is the heck did we get the casey anthony jury? I thought those people came from Stanley County.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Are you implying that people from "Stanly" not "Stanley" are all for killing people as punishment for crimes? I can only hope you never have to experince a loved one of yours in court and find yourself praying that the jury give him punishment that isn't the death penalty.
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
He shot and killed innocent unarmed elderly people and a nurse in a freakin nursing home. Whether he knew what he was doing or not he deserves the unfortunate fate he gave them. How do their families feel? He threw his love for his family out the window when he killed those people. And now...he gets to enjoy himself...getting free meals all day...free accomidations....free gym...free everything except of course his location but he'll get to hang out with all the others that hurt or killed someone...he'll probably enjoy himself. Also, Whether spelled "Stanly" or "Stanley", it sounds the same. Yep.
prfxshn 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thanks for correcting my spelling. Now everyone will know what I was talking about. Who said anything about killing? It's the fact this animal got second-degree murder and not first. The punishment is a whole different issue. I don't have to worry about any of my loved ones ending up in court doing what this monster did, but thanks for your concern.
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
We didn't get the Casey Anthony jury. She is walking the streets free to go where she wants and do whatever she wants. Mr. Stewart is in jail for the rest of his natural life. We got a conviction - just maybe not the one everyone was looking for.
OBXNC 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I have asked before, and again I ask why do we even have a so called death penalty? It is a joke, and the lawyers use it a a token bargining chip. Every tax payer in this state now gets to pay for another murderer to live his life out in prison. We are to obey the rulers/ lawmakers as christains as citizens in this land, not make a mockery of the justic system for the love of a dollar! Thank Dusty and his gang for the out of sight cost for caring for, and upkeep of murderers in our prision system! It sure is strange so many are against building new jails/ prisions for murderers and the like, but are ready to sentence them there every chance they get. Looks like with the likes of what we have coming along in this county and state we better build alot more, and even bigger!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank Dusty and his gang for the out of sight cost for caring for, and upkeep of murderers in our prision system!
Hilarious. Yeah, me and my "gang" have all this power. And prisons cost money. Money means taxes.
ch28327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I'm glad you were not on the jury I sat on last year. I was proud to be part of a "reasonable" (as in, use REASON) group who deliberated thoughtfully and carefully - not the "hang 'em high" type you seem to represent...
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
HE KILLED 8 UNARMED PEOPLE. How is there anything okay about any of that? How does he deserve any positive out of that. HE didn't care. Seems quite reasonable for him to get maximum punishment. Though death still doesnt seem to be enough for what he did.
NocOwl 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Death penalty aside, I am disappointed he didn't get a first degree conviction, and also that he was found not guilty of attempted murder against Mr Cotten and Officer Garner. I'm glad he will spend the rest of his life in prison, and let's face it, even with the death penalty, as long as it takes and with all the many appeals, chances are he would die on his own before they ever executed him anyway. I hope the remainder of his years are spent suffering and in pain, I hope this sentence is indeed a punishment worse than death.
clbvpm 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Dusty, I am curious. Why did they find him not guilty in the attempted murders of Cotton and Garner. Just curious.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
They found him guilty of ADW, not attempted murder. As to why...I honestly don't know. There are a number of possible explanations, but anything I'd say would be pure conjecture. I may do a follow up column next week.
justjoe 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I hope you do a followup column about the legal issues. I wonder about the effect of Judge Webb's point on having to prove the prosecution's contention of premeditation (and not "sleepwalking") got the jury confused or threw them an unexpected twist they couldn't cope with. I'm still trying to figure this out -- beyond it being the law. Your comments on this would be very helpful. Thanks.
clbvpm 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If you do a follow up, also address the fact that felony murder did not come into play as it should have after the first murder.
OBXNC 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Dusty, You are a part of the problem. You are part of a group also that cares only about yourself, and what the law can do for you, not what the law is intended to do. Lawyers and law makers have corrupted the justic system to nothing but a game of money making, at other peoples cost. CH 28327 I'm glad I was not on a jury with you either, if you should have had convicted someone of a crime and you did'nt hand down the sentence that you should have. Dusty would be more your type to have on a jury, give them the best money "free taxpayer money" can buy!
ch28327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
you know, OBXNC, (which stands for OBNOXIOUS, I'm guessing?) making assumptions about other people's intentions or acts as you did above is a great example of the lack of "reasonableness" I was describing. enough said.
OBXNC 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ch28327 sounds like you may have let someone off a little light on the sentence. I could care less what you think is reasonable are not, it's what the law says, not what makes you and your fellow juryers feel good.
TheDirtyDizz 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Just take him out back and shoot him and burn the body. Cost efficient, and is appropriate.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Again same question I ask every one else...if this was your son would you want someone to shoot him, and burn him? Or would you want life in prison?
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Shoot him and burn him!
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So you would help in the killing of your own child?
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So you would help in the killing of your own child?
Apparently. I really hope this 'getreal" person doesn't have any actual children. And if he/she does, we should pray for them.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I wouldn't help with the killing of my own child, but if I had raised Stuart, I would hope he would get the same as he gave. I would then question myself and my whole life as to why someone I brought into this world would do something as horrible as this. I would be guilty too! You need a license to drive a car but any idiot can have child. I would love to meet his family, what produces a pig like this?
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If he was my son, the only thing we'd have in common would be blood. At the point when he took a life, he threw everything away. He became someone else. He's a murderer. NO SYMPATHY.
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
First of all you can't say that for sure. I have a son in prison and no matter what my son has done or did, I still love him, i don't condone what he did, or got talked into doing but it's done and he still is my son forever. If you honestly can say you wouldn't have no sympathy for your son, then I feel really sorry for your son and you, also Jesus died for us all, even the murders, let's not forget that Jesus was murdered and he said from the cross Father forgive them for th ey know not what they are doing.........just saying
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I would just like to say "hugs" to you Sbranche, and I will pray for you tonight. Untill your put in a position like this, you don't understand how you will change the way you view every thing about life.
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thanks InGodWeTrust, yeah until someone has been there they can't say for sure what they would do. I never thought in a million years I would face what I'm facing with my son, but I still love him and he is still my son, and to all of you who wants to pass judgement, I would be very careful, because I used to be one that passed judgement until it happened to me, so walk very carefully people, the Bible says that prisoners are a forgotten people...but God has not forgotten them He loves them just like He loves us....think about it,, and thanks to you again InGodWeTrust...HUGS!!
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I would love my son and yeah I'd miss the good son I had... Not the murderer he became. My son died. He killed himself off when he took 8 lives away.
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
No u wouldn't......quit lying...you would literally lose ur mind over your son...so be honest
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ditto!
LeeMcGraw 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I quoted Dante at the beginning of this "Attorney Showboat". "The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those, who in times of great moral crisis, do nothing at all". The jury pretty much did nothing. Dante was just a man so they may be safe. The Attorneys did their dirty jobs and made the jury believe their crap. That's their job. The jury will now have to live with their weak spines and the defense lawyers can write a book and puff out their little chests.(No big chest needed to envelop a tiny heart). Stewart will get his. The tragedy is that these same defense lawyers will do a terrible job defending a common poor person who is on trial for murder or a major crime. They prove that often. While visiting central prison to deliver doughnuts to Honeybuns Stewart, just look around and ask the men about their defense. If it is not a headline deal, they go through the motions. If they think they can get a headline or camera, well then it is time to get busy and creative!
TreadLightly 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Dusty may know more about this. If he is guilty of killing several people that just happened to be in his way, is that different than the pre-meditated intentions if he had found his wife? Murder that is not pre-meditated would be second degree?
The other angle that the jury could have mulled over would be that he intended to go and kill as many of his wife's friends and co-workers as possible, and kill his wife. That would be pre-meditated. Evidence would be the multiple guns and ample ammo.
Our culture, both liberal and conservative, prefer denial to reality when talking about any evil. Many people convicted of murder are convicted for their latest murder, not their first. You may not want to execute someone who kills a friend or relative in a rare hot moment.. But for the heinous killers and the cold blooded killer, the death penalty is the only sure way to stop a killer from killing again. These people have killed again after being sentenced to life in prison. Some possibilities:
Neither the death penalty nor life in prison can make all the pain go away. It would be much better to treat these people to defuse them or get them into a good church.
fwanko 8 months, 3 weeks ago
@ howcanusaythat - Ok we get it your not in favor of the death sentence. But one of your many retorts says that it is cheaper to keep this guy in jail. Maybe you should read up on your facts before spouting off. I've worked on the design end of some maximum security prisons in North Carolina. Just to build a place to house these creeps costs more than $200 million. To guard, feed, cloth, and look after their medical expenses costs more than $100k per year. If this guy lives another 20 years that's more than $2 million of our tax dollars keeping him alive. How is that cheaper than a trip to the lethal injection room?
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I couldn't have said it better! This animal was organized enough to pack extra guns and ammo, drove there, shot up his wife's car and killed innocent people so he could try commit suicide by cop. The biggest mistake was the cop that didn't kill him on the spot!!! What the h***! This pig shot him and he just wounds him??? Why? So we could spend millions of dollars for a trial and bring in a jury with the combined IQ of 10?? Did the cop think that maybe he wasn't the jerk who killed everyone? I hope your loved ones never meet this kind of end, then we would see how caring you would be about the death penalty!!! I don't want my hard earned tax dollars used to pay to keep him alive for years! I can only hope he gets what he deserves in prison. Wait until they get a hold of him, the grandparent killer. I hope they take him out ASAP! What a horrible excuse for a human being!!! Hopefully he'll have a heart attack from his, fat, obese, body and save us some money!!!
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
All I can say is God have mercy on every one of your souls that have went on and about killing. Killing is wrong, and to kill some one in return is wrong too. Also I can only pray that your in church tomorrow morning asking God for forgiveness for having these thoughts. Again I keep asking each and every one of you and still no body has answered my question "is this was your son would you want him to die, would you want him to be torn apart in prison"?
fwanko 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Here's one for you to answer. If that was your loved one gunned down would you want him to die for killing your loved one? I know I would. Would I want my son to be put to death, no, but the law is the law. I would hope I would be able to accept the decision of the court if that was the verdict.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
My answer and honest answer is no, I believe in forgiving. Jesus Christ died to forgive me. I would leave it up to God to pass Judgement on him....enough said. No better answer than leaving it all up to God, forgive him and know that God has a plan and is in total control of that plan and no one else is. If you want to argue the Bible and a Christian's view point go right on, but if you wish for some one to die or want to be apart of killing than please don't call yourself a Christian cause your not following the teaching of God, Jesus, or the Bible.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If he was my son I would want him to die. What he did was too horrible to deserve to live. What ever happened to "An eye for an eye"? That is from your bible.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Than I hope when you need God the most, he is there for you and helps you in your time of need. Go on try and argue the Bible, and guessing your saying from "your Bible" your not a Christian or a different religion so don't throw the Bible card your in the Bible Belt south my friend, you will lose this battle if you try.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Why don't you ask the people who lost their loved ones what they wanted? The people I saw on TV wanted the death penalty. Let them put him to death and "God" can take and forgive him. Geez, you are so brainwashed. Just because the bible belt believes, doesn't make it reality. Believe what you want, I hope it gives you comfort and makes you a better person, but please don't force your religion down other's throats. There are so many Gods, how do you know which one is real? I have seen so many church goers preach the bible and then turn around do hateful acts. What people believe about death and beyond should remain private, not a megaphone to prove to others how "holy" they are. Pray for me if you want, I will pray for you to see the reality in life and organized religion.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Guess what no body in life gets what they want....I know I haven't and guess what its not in my control. Its in control of God, no matter how good you think you raised a child, no body what you do to prepare you for life its left up to God. Whether you believe it or not there are people out there they are Christian and do follow the Bible and its teaching, and choose to avoid wrong or if they have done wrong avert to church and the teachings of the Bible for forgiveness and start leading a life devoted to God. Also guess what you have no clue how much I have seen the reality of life, I probaly seen more and dealt with more than you have and ever thought about dealing with. The only thing to go me through life and the reality of it is God, and believing and following him. As for the victims family, I pray for them but I also pray they find it in their hearts to forgive to forgive and let God handle this from now on. As far the Bible belt (and you spell Bible with a capital B) don't judge people cause you don't know a half of what people deal with in their day to day life and by following God they find strength. I am sure that Stewart lead a Christian lifestyle, we wouldn't be writing this today cause he would find strength in God to of not did the things he did. As far forcing my religion down others throat guess what when you go into court...you place your hand on the Bible enough said. So if you want keep arguing lets go I got all night up untill I have to leave to go to church and praise the Lord Jesus Christ for giving me the strength to deal with all that I have to deal with in my life.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
You still didn't answer my question about "An eye for an Eye". Go to bed, you have to get up early for church. While you are there pray for that animal Stuart, because if there is a he*l he'll have a standing reservation. I am happy that your faith helps you deal with your hardships, we all have our problems. You might be one of the very few who follow what they believe, be it fact or fiction. I still think he should die a thousand deaths to pay for those poor innocent people, most of whom did good in their lives for others. An eye for an eye!
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Getreal scroll down through the posts and you will read about eye for an eye. As for hell you have to have complete rejection from God and his teachings. Also just to let you know you have killed...you have killed tonight by saying you hope he should die. Any time you hate, you kill. You kill, you are not obeying God. I am not saying he didn't do wrong, I am saying that he shouldn't die no body should, buts its our place to forgive and turn the other cheek, even if that means taking a loss of our own. Also before you go into a long discussion about the victims and their loses, I have had my share of being on their side and knowing how they feel like I said I will not get into the hardships I have dealt with, but God got me through those and its the biggest relief I have gotten in my life than living with a heavy heart full of hate.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Why don't you ask the people who lost their loved ones what they wanted? The people I saw on TV wanted the death penalty.
Actually, Ms. DeGarmo, Mr. Avant's fiance, was quoted by WRAL as saying, "I think he deserved first degree, life without parole." I think it's pretty presumptuous of anyone but the families try and tell us 'What the families wanted." It's entirely possible they wanted different things.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Well said!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If he was my son I would want him to die.
Then you, sir or madam, are a monster.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I'm a monster??? What do you think Stuart is??? I honestly feel that if a person I brought into this world took the lives of innocent people, he should be taken out of world. Maybe something I did made him that way, then I would be guilty too! Are you kidding me, he is as evil as they come, A piece of trash to be thrown out. You call me a monster and defend him? You are as crazy as Ingodwetrust.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I'm not defending Stewart. I am saying that anyone who would want their own son, their own flesh and blood, to not only die, but to be burnt, is a monster.
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
AGAIN once this person killed 8 innocent people and tried to kill others, he got rid of his rights as a son. In my opinion, just an opinion, he should lose his rights as a human...by whatever punishment he may be given (hopefully the equivalent of what he dished out for those poor innocent people). Whether he was sick or intoxicated or just crazy, he deserves to be punished! He didn't care when he killed them....he plowed through the place blasting left and right. What about them? What about the people that were almost killed...you think they arent still affected by this? or their families? Where can anyone have sympathy for people like him? He took peoples lives away. He deserves to have his taken away.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank you! Someone with brains finally!
AbdominalDohMan 8 months, 3 weeks ago
"Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass." This is a quote from 1 Samuel 15:3. God commands capital punishment if it is justified. I find what this animal did as justification enough.
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Let's not make this about what Justin Garner did or did not do! He responded and did what he could to prevent this man from killing any more innocent people. I don't understand why Mr. Stewart was not found guilty of the attempted murder of a cop after he shot Justin. And while Justin was being shot at, he managed to get off one shot and hit Mr. Stewart (in the chest if I remember correctly - so it wasn't like he was aiming for his kneecaps). Once Mr. Stewart was down and was attempting to reload his weapon, Justin put him in handcuffs. Had he shot him again when the defendant did not have a loaded weapon, that would have been murder also! Thank you Justin for what you did do that day. You saved many other innocent people from becoming victims!
ncfarmgirl999 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I dont like to be the harbinger of doom but its pretty apparent he and his x had multiple problems which was not anybody elses fault dont drop the soap buddy with a but that big its pointless kinda like hitting a bull in the butt with a base fiddle
ncfarmgirl999 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Personally i taught my son not to use drugs and as a parent I taught him to make proper decisions that would not end in him getting into something like this
thiscountrysucks 8 months, 3 weeks ago
OK, for those Christians out there, what about the bible, and AN EYE FOR AN EYE thing? If it weren't for TREE HUGGERS,CHRISTIANS,and LIBERALS, our country would be in better shape.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Matthew 5:38-40 and Matthew 5-6, and 23. Jesus asked us to take the Law of Moses and go beyond that and asked us to extend Grace, if any ones wants to steal your tunic let him steal your cloak as well. The only thing wrong with this country is people stop following Christianity, reading the Bible, and attending church. I pray you take out the Bible and read in it tonight, if you do you will find the answers to the Eye for Eye and extending Grace, go the extra mile.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Also to add if you truly understood the "eye for an eye" you would understand what part of the Bible its from, and how it changes through out the Bible. Its one of the reasons Jesus Christ died on the cross for us.
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
AMEN!! An eye for an eye was under the law, that is why Jesus had to come and die for us, in the new testament we are under Grace!! thank you InGodWeTrust for your faithfulness to God! People need to know and hear the truth!!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Amen! LOL
131327 8 months, 3 weeks ago
WELL THEN
riderblues 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Well, well, well! The family members had to pay for their loved ones to live at Pinelake. Now the families tax dollars and the citizens of North Carolina will have to pay for this man to be in prison with free health and dental care and roof over his head and feeding him for the rest of his life. But, we has citisens must worry about health and dental care and how to feed our on families with jobs not being availabe. Looks like Stewart is the one who does not have to worry about day to day struggles. Then when he dies in prison we (citizens of North Carolina) will pay for all of his funeral expenses. Now, if I'm not mistaken? The State retirement/disablity benefits give families only $250 for expenses of ones funeral What in the world is wrong with the United States. That is exactly why the USA is in the shape that it is in. BEING MENTAL ILL DOES NOT MEAN THAT A PERSON CAN GET AWAY WITH MURDER.NOT DOES IT MEAN ONE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE.
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I believe it is the Social Security Administration that gives a family $ 250 towards burial expenses - not the State. And it was never meant to pay the total expenses, just to help. What is wrong with this country is that there are a lot of people out there who expect the government to pay for everything for them! How about getting off the couch and going out and earning a living? And paying our own bills, etc.? I realize the economy is tough right now and there are not a lot of jobs out there, but people need to learn to take care of themselves and not expect someone else to do it for them.
sbranche 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Um excuse me...but I don't know why people keep saying free medical and dental....medical is not free and they no longer offer dental to inmates, I know this for a fact
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ignorant people think maximum security prisons are cushy retreats where "we" pay to feed them gourmet meals and give them top of the line health care.
Extremely ignorant people continue to assert this in the face of all information to the contrary.
t4perkins 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I worked for serveral years at UNC-Hospitals on a step-down cardiac unit. At least once a month, an inmate from Central Prison was on my floor for a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft...or open heart surgery...or a pacemaker....or a defibrillator...not to mention round the clock prison guards to stay with the patient. Who paid for that, Dusty?
clbvpm 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If I am not mistaken, one of the men who shot Mr. Kelly in the convenience store in Vass got a cornea transplant thanks to tax payers dollars. I had been on the organ donor list for years. On the day we found this to be true, my spouse and myself went to the DMV and had this changed. I wonder what the organ donor's family would think if they knew a murderer had their loved ones cornea? I also have talked with Moore County law enforcement officers who have said that if an inmate is tranported to the hospital from the jail, it is almost always an admission. The doctors know they can get their money from the county. Then a detention officer has to sit with them in the hospital, meaning possible overtime pay for the officer and more from the budget. While the inmate there do pay something like a co-pay, they do not pay the big bills. We do.
t4perkins 8 months, 3 weeks ago
You are not mistaken, clbvpm.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank you!!!! Well said!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The above answer went in the wrong place, Please oh Dusty, tell us what is paid for by the taxpayers in prisons. I would like to know what my hard earned dollars buy for the animals like Stuart. Will he still get his disablity? Will his family have pay for anything? Just curious, he was a lazy out of work bum anyway, he can just sit and watch TV as easily in prison as he probably did at home.
Robbinsgirl 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This idiot should have been 'freid' for what he did.....now all us taxpayers will do is pay to keep him alive......sure he "may" remember what he didbut, if he continues with the Ambien, he will be in a "daze" and not remembr anything, HA !!! Bull crap!!!! What they ought to do is put pictures of ALL his victims all over the cell, and one of his ex, as this is the reason it all started anyways....This just my feelings here.
hadone99 8 months, 3 weeks ago
i knew two of these people i took care of them at another nursing home they were the greatest the kindest people who could meet ms dekler was a warm loving kind hearted never spoke bad of anyone she was a great mother her family visited her everyday she was always with a smile her favorite was peanut butter toast we laughed at that because its mine to and mr goldston was a man that loved to ride around in his wheelchair and vist with the other residents i remember when i started giving meds to him the others told me hes not going to take them and some times he wouldnt but most of the time he did so to say the least that these people didnt deserve the slow and painful death they got and believe me their wounds were painful and these meds he was taking werent that mind blocking he could walk then he could think so yeah he should get death and slow painful just like he gave these people so if you think its ok then i feel for you if you do the crime you should pay thats what wrong with the world now you can blame the meds the alchol or just plain being dumb and you got three fre meals and color tv and clean jumpsuits and lose weight
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
HIPPA...enough said!
foregolf 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I don't see where any HIPPA laws were violated in the above comment. Names are public, no medication names are mentioned. Where do you see a problem with HIPPA?
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Not sure this is a HIPPA violation, but I could be wrong...writer was just recalling her encounters with 2 of the victims....did not share any medical info or protected personal information that I saw.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The writer shared info about "not taking meds" that enough to say that maybe that person if alive, or family wouldn't want it to be public for others to read. It only takes a tiny amount of info to make it a HIPPA violation. I suggest that it be removed due to that persons family may not want this on the internet.
clbvpm 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Not a HIPPA violation...it was a tribute to two wonderful people. I thought HIPPA violations once in a college program.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank you hadone99 ! Well said!
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I am guessing getreal might be related to victims in this case?
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Ingodwetrust will do anything to cast doubt on anyone who doesn't thump her bible and agree with her/him. To argue and chastise other comments isn't exactly "turning the other cheek" now is it?
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Just telling the truth getreal!!!! I have turned the other cheek, the cheek you can't turn and be brave enough to say that I believe in my religion, the religion this nation was built on!!!!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I have question for you Ingodwetrust, do you also forgive the animals that flew the planes into the towers? Their God isn't the same as yours, do feel they deserve to be forgiven? Do you pray for them too?
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I pray for every one whether they are my religion or not. I forgive every one, Jesus Christ died for me. Grudge is the worst enemy to have as well as hate. Getreal, Christians do exist in this world those they follow the Lord and live a life with God. Many people find it hard to believe, its unpopular, and also its a hard life to live. A lot of people give up on leading a life with God, however eventually God will take you down a long bumpy road and cause you to go through hardships and thats his way of asking you to come back to him, many people ignore that and continue down the wrong path. Just like 9/11 people started attending church again cause of the pain our country went through, people joined the military, our country was standing strong and proud, but its easier to slip up and not continue a path with God and listening than to follow him. In all honesty its not that hard, it just takes listening to him, trusting God, and knowing he is in control. Just like those that flew the plan, God was in control and they got their judgement by God not us. I pray for the victims, and their families however again none of us could control what happened on 9/11 and what our country went through we never saw it coming (spare me the lecture on the government knew). If I died today in something like 9/11 my only wish would be for my family to forgive and to continue on with their life and find happiness, celebrating my life and the times with me not sorrow of my passing. Again thats a hard thing to say, and its takes a strong person to say that but its the one thing stands out. Getreal I understand your feelings about all of this, untill I had my calling from God and listened to him I was on your side of things I thought the same things you are thinking and feeling but those feelings and view points did nothing for me, they got me no where, you may or may not be religious but you have to understand one thing this country was built on religion and people will always have a religious view points on things. If you can't understand that and respect that than its better to say nothing at all, religion will always prevail and this country will never stop believing in God and his teachings!!!!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Like I said before, believe what you will, if it makes you a better person and you treat others well because of your faith, more power to you. It is those who feel what they believe is the only right answer and those who disagree are wrong. How many millions have died in wars over whose God is the only one? Sheer insanity. People die over who has the best imaginary friend. You forgive everyone, you are better than me, I agree. But Stuart is a disgrace to the human race and deserves the same that he gave. No, I am not related to anyone from this horrible crime, I did lose a very close friend years ago in a robbery. He was only 34 and was lying on the floor as he was told by the sick creep who was holding a shotgun to his head while the other animals were cleaning out the register. He was asked a question and when he turned his head to answer they shot him in the head!!!!! They were convicted and sentenced to life, but 8 years later an AH judge let him walk free! So there is your justice and your God taking care of things! Preach all you want, there are some of us who know the score! Criminals 1, Justice and God 0 !
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
See Getreal this what I thought about you all along that you had some deepen relationship to crime, hate, and the death sentence. I can understand your hurt, trust me I have a story of my own but not getting into it. I do urge you to find some peace, some way some how whether it be religion, volunteering, writing, and talking to other people. Like I said earlier let hate consume your heart will only make for bitter times in your life. You also need to keep in mind, you don't or maybe you do know what happened to this guy after he walked free from prison and its probaly best you don't know. If your friend was alive today, what do you think they would want most for you to do and speak honest. (you don't have to answer back to this or answer any of this just want you to think about it) As you mention earlier war and religion have been a long battle, but its to be expected as odd as that sounds as much as I don't agree with it. Life is full of bitter truths you just have to face and accept. Such as......people argue and stand up for what they believe just like these comments people keep leaving.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Part II of the above comment....
In retrospect if people didn't have different ways of viewing things than are country may not be what it is. People complain about our country, but honestly we are a great country yes money wise are as a country messed up but its all these opinons of people that honestly make it great. I forgive people, so what thats my religion. I don't disagree to people having their own religion or views about religion, however I do stand up for what I believe, just as you are standing up for what you believe as well as every one that has left a comment on here. Its human nature to protect what you love, I love my religion, just as a mother protects her child and we stand up for what we love and protect that. You speak of knowing the score, its not the score that matters it other things in life that matters. Not all criminals are bad people, some criminals are part of a wrong place wrong time, some are innocent but found guilty anyways another reason I object to the death sentence but thats another story, some criminals have families and care deeply about their families, some are waiting on their time to get out and do a complete turn around and live life to the fullest in a positive way. I have been there and don't that and been on both sides of the court. You can't say that not reading any of this or any of the comments left on here haven't made you think, whether its maybe I should change, or your scared, or you haven't figure out why you should change. Its hard to change after experincing a lost of a loved one in some thing like this, but thats the Grace we struggle with. It was so easy for Jesus to forgive and show grace, why do we make it so hard to do the same, cause as I have said before a Christian life and a life of grace and forgiveness isn't a easy thing to do. You speak of Stewart being a disgrace to the human race, think about how much we all was a disgrace to God at one point or haven't listened to him. If you want to get technical, we all are a disgrace we all lie, we all sin, we aren't prefect. So saying one person is more of a disgrace than others is the pot calling the kettle black. Its a sad world we live in, a great world, a hate world, a loving world. You can't say and I say this as a joke, can't blame the 70s for people wanting peace!!!!!
fatlab 8 months, 3 weeks ago
This was obviously premeditated first degree murder! Any murder has reasons or excuses? The only true exception is insanity. Getting drunk or doing drugs is self induced and is not an excuse for premeditated murder!
Stewart had to load the gun, go to the nursing home, take aim and pull the trigger multiple times at defenseless people.
If Moore County or the State of North Carolina does not want to enforce the death penalty then take it off the books. Executing this waste of a human being isn't revenge and it's not going to bring anyone back but it would be justice? To be forgiven one must repent to God.
Justice would be to execute this man and let God decide his final outcome! Going to prison where he can have three meals a day and watch TV is not justice.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
If Moore County or the State of North Carolina does not want to enforce the death penalty then take it off the books.
Oh, I agree, take it off the books. But not for the reason you state. Moore County and the State of North Carolina vigorously prosecuted this as a death penalty case. But they don't, thank God, get the final say in criminal matters, especially when death is on the line. That really would be tyranny. A jury of citizens makes the call.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Yes, 12 people too stupid to get out of jury duty.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
So you have contempt for the Constitution as well as Christianity?
native 8 months, 3 weeks ago
OK, Could someone research how much it cost us to finally Put Jr Brown TO DEATH...I totally believe in the death penalty, however, the current way it is applied, it is very costly. Jr. Brown sat on the bench in the death chamber for 10+ years getting mandatory appeals, time after time.... and you and I (tax payers) paid for each and every one..
I think this case came out correct, however, if he had killed his ex-wife, it would have been premeditated.
Laws need to be changed and the way prisoners are treated in NC needs to be changed...
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Native ~ Millions for one appeal after another. Trips to court for re-sentencing. Security cost thousands. Trips to other jurisdictions where the sentencing judge was holding court. All along, taxpayers were providing legal counsel for his defense. David Junior Brown deserved to die. Few remember the crime scene when Christy and Diane Chalfinch's body's were discovered. Their deaths were so brutal, his signant ring was found inside Diane's body. And, the anti death penalty groups were there in full force to denounce his execution. At that time, there murders were the worst ever seen in Poorer County.
native 8 months, 3 weeks ago
yes, i remember it well..My daughter was friends with her daughter and even after my daughter was in college, she would ask me if they had put him to death..Finally when my daughter was around 30 they finally did.
I don't know for sure, but I don't believe Stewart will have that many appeals.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Looks like his counsel has set the wheels in motion....
skylinefirepest 8 months, 3 weeks ago
IGWT--No hipa laws broken. And while we're at it the HIPA law is a pain in the old butt!! We get paged to a "6Delta21" and if you are responding pov and don't have a chart handy you can end up on the scene of a shooting or whatever before Central tells you to stage. We've had guys pulling up to the house before they got the "stage" instruction. It is legal to go plain language and I, for one, would love to see the county do that before a responder gets hurt!! Back to your comments in this blog...to take Stewart's life is not revenge...it is prevention! Too many killers have been released from prison only to take another life. There are simply too many evil people out there that would love to have a second opportunity to hurt or kill you. If you wish to take that risk on yourself, that's fine...but don't you dare suggest to me that I should put myself or my family in that harm's way simply because you don't think it is right to take a life!!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
to take Stewart's life is not revenge...it is prevention! Too many killers have been released from prison only to take another life.
Well, we have 142 years before we have to worry about that.
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
to take Stewart's life is not revenge...it is prevention! Too many killers have been released from prison only to take another life.
Well, we have 142 years before we have to worry about that.
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Thank you skylinefirepest!
dustyrhoades 8 months, 3 weeks ago
DUSTY FOR PRESIDENT!!!
Heh. Thanks but no thanks...
(And I don't know how this got threaded here. )
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
John Rourke left Cameron Morrison after maxing out his sentence only to murder a nurse at Dix Hospital and then ran over her with his car. Just wait until the prison bus pulls up to the Gold Bar Hilton to release prisoners who have maxed out their sentences - they are returned to their home county - 063. Seen it too many times.
skylinefirepest 8 months, 3 weeks ago
You may be right, Dusty...but we thought the Lockerbie bomber was going to die in prison, didn't we??
pacer 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Dusty, I will never know where you get the patience to attempt intelligent conversations with unarmed people! DUSTY FOR PRESIDENT!!!
getreal 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I have question for you Ingodwetrust, do you also forgive the animals that flew the planes into the towers? Their God isn't the same as yours, do feel they deserve to be forgiven? Do you pray for them too?
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
My answer is above, in the spot you posted this.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
InGodwetrust ~ here is a few facts based on my homework, something you should embellish before chastising others who post on these threads.
Medical
The Moore County Jail has linen storage rooms, a gurney storage room, two exam rooms and an infirmary with two handicap accessible isolation cells with negative air pressure for those inmates with communicable diseases. Operational savings by reducing number of inmates having to be sent to area hospitals.
Since inmates won't have to be sent to area hospitals, Doctors will make house calls to the Federal Sized Prison in Carthage. Did we really need all of this in this economy? According to some, YES. The numbers don't work when applied logically to need vs wants.
InGodWeTrust 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Than I say "spend the tax dollars" I support a better prison, than supporting a person like you. Untill you got a loved one or been around people who have a loved one in prison than you know nothing what its like. While we are spending tax dollars lets also set up programs to help the families with cost of having some one in jail or prisontthats helps them out. I know what I just is going to make heads roll....oh well!!!!!! YOU JUST DON'T KNOW!!!!!!!!!!!
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
For those who have never visited Central Prison or toured the facilities, I have. They have one of the best bakeries with warm fresh bread at every meal. They have a chiefs program as well as a bakery program. Inmates who are incarcerated within the NCDOC confines, are served meals prescribed by a licensed dietitian who works for the DOC. They have health care services at Central as well as on site medical staff at each prison. They are bused to various units for specific procedures. McCain has an inmate radiologist as well as medical staff for inmate health management. It is unlikely that Stewart will remain at Central after processing. He will probably go to Caledonia which is a high security unit where inmates work in the fields and guards still ride horses while supervising inmates working on the farm. It is a tough place to exist. Stewart will lose weigh, and pay for his upkeep.
Here's your link: http://www.doc.state.nc.us/dop/prisons/Caledoni.htm
CNMT 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I thought they closed McCain - about a year ago if I remember correctly.
MarshaG 8 months, 3 weeks ago
McCain did close, a year ago, and the only other medical unit is Hoke. It's minimum custody. Wondering if he'll be close or medium custody, initially...it's likely he'll stay at CP if his medical needs warrant, or he may opt for P-Con at Pamlico. Will be interesting to see where he goes.
MarshaG 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Excuse me, Hoke is the only medical unit in this area. There are others for chronically ill inmates in different regions.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The Unit didn't close...it was the Hospital. The close custody unit has a complete medical section as well. The hospital was next to the Close Custody Unit. Link: http://www.doc.state.nc.us/dop/list/closed.htm
MarshaG 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Not sure which unit you're talking about, Toda. McCain closed, and Hoke Correctional, which was a medium custody institution, converted to minimum custody. The only close custody unit in this region is Scotland Correctional.
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
MarshaG I can only base my observations on the DOC closed units link. See the link above which indicates that the hospital closed which used to be the Tuberculosis Hospital. The heating and cooling plant was located on the Sandhills Youth site that closed. So when that closed, the HVAC condition became non-existent. I haven't ridden past the McCain unit lately, so you may be correct and the DOC site for closings hasn't been updated. I think the best place for Stewart is Caledonia unit.
pinewoodnc 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I think that had he been successful in killing his ex-wife, then premeditation could have applied and he most likely would have gotten first degree murder. I figure that is what made the jury have to go with second degree. Although we all know prison is a hell, it still bothers me that someone that has committed such a heinous act will be supported by our tax dollars for the rest of his life. If he lives thirty or more years, that will be several hundred thousands of dollars. There is absolutely no doubt he committed these murders and I feel that certain acts warrant the death penalty. If he is not a prime candidate for it, I don't know who is. I believe that the laws seem more and more to protect the criminals and not the victims.
Ronin 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Maybe the earthquake in Virginia was not really an earthquake. It was instead our Founding Fathers rolling over in their graves. Rolling over in disgust with what this nation has become. Same as this case. You can argue that this is justice and he will suffer a lifetime in prison. But what would George Washington say? What would Thomas Jefferson say? They would say...give him a thick rope and big tree. You can agree or disagree about the death penalty but I know where our Founding Fathers would rule.
tarheel86 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The older I get, the more indecisive about the death penalty I get. Not because it is unjustified, but because it is not fairly meted out in our judicial system. Money talks in our justice system, and I am one who believes that crimes should be punished in a consistent manner. However, if there was ever a case that cried out for the death penalty, it was this case. I truly do not know how a second degree murder conviction was reached. This was first degree murder plain and simple and Robert Stewart deserved to die for his crimes.
Ronin 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Amen Tarheel186! Thank you and you are right Robert Stewart deserved to die rather than tax our fellow Americans for 30+ years. We are a country in dire need of reform and restoration. Like the hunting dog caught on a fence we must chew our leg off...ridding us the bad....to save the our life for future generations.
ncfarmgirl999 8 months, 3 weeks ago
ther finnally the golden word HIPPA i had mine raped at my place of employment where it was all about me so wrong i am so calling the labor board on this southern pines nursing home
AbdominalDohMan 8 months, 3 weeks ago
HUH??? Does this post make any sense at all???
BTB10 8 months, 3 weeks ago
The Justice system fails again. What a gutless jury. They made NC the laughing stock of the country. They should be prosecuted themselves for such lack of respect for the law. Its a sad day in America when anyone can walk in a retirement home and shoot people in wheelchairs and get convicted of 2nd degree murder just because you say you were taking drugs and dont remember anything.What a joke. I truly believe if this man was not convicted of 1st degree murder and sentenced to death, then the death penalty should be abolished and NEVER used again. What a tragedy to put this worthless human being in prison and look after him the rest of his life. Another prime example of why this whole country is going to hell in a hand basket. If we had a real justice system, people would think twice before they did thing such as this. SIMPLY UNBELIEVABLE
t4perkins 8 months, 3 weeks ago
I used to work on a Cardiac step-down unit at UNC-Hospitals. At least once a month, there would be some patient from Central Prison undergoing a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft...or open heart surgery...or having a pacemaker placed...or a defibrillator. Not to mention the diagnostic testing or the 'round the clock guard who would stay with the patient. For all of you who say our tax dollars don't go for "decent medical care" for these prisoners, please explain to me who pays for it!
BTW who paid for Mr. Stewarts' hospital stay while recuperating from his shotgun wound??? Do tell !!!
Toda 8 months, 3 weeks ago
We did and we do...one who is need of serious medical treatment may find prison less expensive route than having judgments placed against their property for non-payment of hospital bills. For so many Americans, health insurance premiums are out of range of most modest incomes. Then once an insurer decides to pay up, the 20% can stagger most family's economic structure. (ie homeless).
skylinefirepest 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Dusty--a question if you will...first degree means pre-meditated, correct? Then in this instance Stewart drove to the nursing home looking for his wife, he carried two guns, he carried a quantity of ammo, he shot up her car ( I took photos of it ), he shot at a man in the parking lot, he shot at Justin Garner...it just seems like he did a lot of ahead of time planning for it not to be pre-meditated. I served on a jury years ago where a man at Hardee's in Aberdeen was shot accidentally by another man and the judge instructed us that one of our choices was assault with intent to kill. So Stewart shoots at a policeman and a bystander, shoots directly at them, and is not found guilty of assault with intent to kill. Sure does make me wonder what was going through the jurist's minds!!