Maximum sentences handed down in Mississippi County convictions

CHARLESTON, Mo. – Two individuals facing separate felony charges in Mississippi County received the maximum sentences for their convictions.

Mississippi County Prosecuting Attorney Claire E. Poley announced on Friday, Nov. 15 two convictions, which she said, secured justice for victims and affirmed the commitment of her office to public safety and accountability.

“Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve, and it is imperative that we uphold their authority and protect our communities from individuals who resist arrest,” Poley said.

The two cases, prosecuted by Poley, concluded with sentences for two defendants, Sterling McCain, 40, and Jimmie Taylor, 47, in separate felony cases.

On Sept. 6, after a one-day jury trial, McCain was found guilty of the felony of resisting arrest. On Tuesday, Nov. 12, Circuit Judge R. Zac Horack imposed the maximum sentence, ordering McCain to serve four years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

This sentencing underscores the court’s stance against defiance of law enforcement authority and its support for maintaining safety in our communities, Poley said.

“This maximum sentence reinforces that those who choose to endanger our officers will be held accountable,” Poley said. “I want to extend my gratitude to the dedicated members of law enforcement, the court personnel, and the jury who made this outcome possible.”

Taylor pleaded guilty on Sept. 12 to the unclassified felony of attempted rape in the first degree. On Tuesday, Nov. 12, Horack sentenced Taylor to life in prison, running consecutively with his current sentence in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

Poley said this life sentence stands as a testament to the severity of his actions and sends a strong message of zero tolerance for sexual violence.

“This case is a reminder of the resilience and strength of victims who bravely come forward in the face of heinous crimes,” Poley said. “We are deeply inspired by the victim’s courage and determined to ensure that justice is served. No one should ever have to endure such harm, and the sentence today reflects the commitment of our judicial system to protect victims and bring offenders to justice. I want to thank the investigators who worked tirelessly on this case, as well as the court staff and Judge Horack who upheld justice in this solemn matter.”

Mrs. Poley commended the cooperation of law enforcement agencies involved in both cases, noting that the swift and coordinated efforts were instrumental in these successful prosecutions. “This outcome would not have been possible without the diligence and teamwork of all the agencies involved, each playing a crucial role in delivering justice for Mississippi County,” Poley said.

These sentences mark a significant step toward justice, underscoring the commitment of the Mississippi County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to upholding the law and safeguarding the community from those who commit violent crimes.