VIDEO: Booneville Man Facing Possible Death Penalty After Charged In Murder Of Estranged Wife

BOONEVILLE, MISS. (WCBI) – A Booneville man is facing the death penalty in connection with that city’s first homicide in years.
This case began late last week with the discovery of a female’s body in a wooded area and was wrapped up quickly with the arrest of the victim’s estranged husband.

There is a steady stream of visitors at Karen Branda’s Booneville apartment.  They are shocked and saddened that the woman found less than a half mile away, in a wooded area, was Branda’s daughter, 35 year old Laura Ann Rutledge.

“I just want to thank the police officers here because they did do a good job, they didn’t let up , they knew something was wrong,” Branda said.

Her estranged husband, 22 year old Mike Brian Rutledge, is charged with capital murder.  Booneville Police Chief Michael Ramey says evidence shows Laura Ann Rutledge was kidnapped, held against her will, and eventually beaten and stabbed to death, before being dumped in the woods.

“In my opinion, yes it’s good he’s off the streets, and the police department, along with the district attorney, we assure you the police department will prosecute him to the fullest,” Chief Ramey said.

Chief Ramey says Mike Rutledge was on probation for burglary of a dwelling at the time of the murder.  The chief says Mike Rutledge had been accused of assault in the past involving his wife, but charges were never filed.

Laura’s mother says she knew her daughter was in abusive relationship and she warned her to leave many times.

“My daughter kept saying, I love him, I love him and this is the end result,” Branda said.

And she has a warning for women in similar situations.

“Please, if a man hits you once, go, run, don’t wait because he will do it again,” she said.

Now,  along with planning a memorial service for her daughter, Karen Branda is also preparing to take care of Laura’s two minor children.    In Booneville I’m Allie Martin, WCBI News

A memorial service is set for Wednesday at Booneville Funeral Home.