Arizona Man Convicted in 2017 Killing Spree That Claimed Eight Lives
PHOENIX, AZ – Cleophus Cooksey Jr., 43, has been found guilty of a series of murders committed in Arizona during a three-week period in late 2017. Cooksey was convicted of killing eight people, including his mother and stepfather, following his release from prison for a prior robbery conviction.
The case, which gripped the state six years ago, highlights the challenges of recidivism and the devastating impact of violent crime on communities. Cooksey’s sentencing, which will determine if he faces the death penalty, is pending and will offer a measure of closure to the victims’ families. The conviction underscores the ongoing debate surrounding criminal justice reform and public safety.
The series of killings began shortly after Cooksey’s release from prison for a fatal robbery at a strip club. On november 27, 2017, two individuals in their twenties were discovered dead inside a vehicle. Days later, a 31-year-old security guard was murdered on his commute home, and his firearm was stolen.
Cooksey’s rampage continued with two additional random killings and a fatal sexual assault. Law enforcement apprehended Cooksey on December 17 after neighbors reported hearing gunshots emanating from his residence. Upon entering the home,authorities discovered the bodies of Cooksey’s mother and stepfather,aged 56 and 54 respectively.
Investigators recovered the security guard’s stolen weapon during a search of Cooksey’s home, and evidence revealed he was wearing a necklace belonging to the victim. DNA analysis also linked Cooksey to the sexual assault. Throughout the legal proceedings, Cooksey has maintained his innocence and has not offered any explanation for the violence.
