Cornelius M. Green, a former middle school principal in St. Louis, has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms in prison for his role in the murder of his pregnant girlfriend and schoolteacher, Jocelyn Peters. The sentencing by U.S. District Judge Ronnie L. White follows Green’s guilty plea earlier this year to charges of conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire and murder-for-hire.
Background of the Case
In 2016, Jocelyn Peters, aged 30 and pregnant with Green’s child, was tragically killed in her apartment. The prosecution revealed disturbing details during the trial, illustrating Green’s elaborate deception and betrayal of Peters’ trust. Despite Peters’ belief that she and Green were building a future together, Green was leading a double life, involving multiple other women unbeknownst to Peters.
The Murder Plot Unfolds
Court documents and testimony showed that Green, intending to end Peters’ pregnancy and her life, first attempted to poison her unborn child. When this plan failed, he enlisted the help of Phillip J. Cutler, a friend from Oklahoma, whom Green paid using stolen funds from a school fundraiser. Cutler, carrying out Green’s instructions, fatally shot Peters in her apartment while she was innocently preparing baby shower invitations.
Dr. Nicole Conaway, a former colleague, recounted the devastating impact on Peters’ students upon learning of her murder. The community, including St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore, emphasized the ongoing trauma inflicted by Green’s actions.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany Becker and Zachary Bluestone prosecuted the case, highlighting the collaboration between local and federal authorities. The investigation, led by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI, uncovered the extent of Green’s deception and his attempts to cover up the crime.
Judge White’s decision to impose two consecutive life terms reflects the severity of Green’s crimes and seeks to bring closure to Peters’ grieving loved ones. The case underscores the need for vigilance against domestic violence and the tragic consequences of unchecked manipulation and abuse.
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Conclusion
The sentencing of Cornelius M. Green concludes a tragic chapter in St. Louis, where a principal entrusted with educating young minds instead orchestrated a heinous crime that shattered lives. As the community continues to heal, authorities hope this case serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and safeguarding against such profound acts of betrayal and violence.
