SPOKANE, Wash. – Daniel Edwards, initially sentenced to life, was resentenced to 60 years in prison for the 1987 murder of Kipper, “Kip,” McKenna.
Edwards, a 20-year-old at the time of the murder, confessed to killing Kip and raping his girlfriend in July 1987. His guilty plea led to a life sentence without parole.
With changes made earlier this decade to Washington State law, which prohibits life sentences without the possibility of parole for those under the age of 21, Edwards sought resentencing, arguing it was unconstitutional under current state laws.
At Thursday’s hearing, the prosecutor described Edwards’ actions as “the execution” of Kip, stating it was a means to rape Kip’s girlfriend.
McKenna’s father, Bill McKenna, spoke to the court, opposing Edwards’ release. He read a letter written by Kip’s mother.
The defense argued that Edwards’ age at the time classified him as a “youthful offender,” and the crimes were indicative of impulsive and reckless behavior.
Edwards, who appeared via Zoom from prison, spoke to the court and expressed remorse.
“I am sorry… I’ve had 37 years waking up in a totalitarian environment, which I know none of you can comprehend,” Edwards said.
However, McKenna remained unconvinced by Edwards’ apology.
“Being sorry can’t cover for what happened… I didn’t buy his apology,” McKenna said.
Spokane County Superior Court Judge Annette Plese took the change to Washington State law into consideration. But, she noted Edwards’ history of assaults and misconduct in prison, which includes cocaine and pornography possession in his cell along with destructive outbursts.
She altered his sentence from life in prison to 60 years. He will spend approximately 23 more years in prison, with credit for the 37 years he has already served.
“I’m satisfied with it. I would have rather had him stay life in prison. But, it is what it is,” McKenna said.
Under current Washington law, Edwards would be ineligible for parole. However, he could potentially be released earlier through the State’s earned release time program, or “good time credit.” A good time credit is a reward for prisoners who demonstrate good behavior and participate in programs, and it reduces the amount of time a prisoner spends in custody.
