The tragic case of St. Louis police officer Tamarris Bohannon, who was killed in the line of duty in August 2020, has finally seen some justice with the guilty verdict of Thomas Kinworthy. Kinworthy, 46, was found guilty of first-degree murder and eight other charges related to Bohannon’s death after a nearly two-week trial. Bohannon had responded to a call where an armed man had barricaded himself inside a home and ordered a family out. During the incident, Bohannon was shot in the head, ultimately leading to his untimely death the following day. Kinworthy did not dispute his actions during the trial, where he admitted to shooting two officers, killing Bohannon.
The jury deliberated for about three hours before reaching a verdict, convicting Kinworthy of first-degree murder, first-degree assault, burglary, resisting arrest, and three counts of armed criminal action. The first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence, and Kinworthy is set to be sentenced on June 27. Kinworthy has a criminal record dating back to the 1990s, where he spent nine months in prison for a drug crime in St. Louis County. Additionally, court records show that Kinworthy was involved in a 1998 road rage incident in Florida, where he shot a driver, causing him to lose three fingers, for which he was convicted in 2001 and served six years in prison.
The loss of Officer Tamarris Bohannon has deeply impacted the St. Louis community and the police department. Bohannon, at just 29 years old, had been with the department for 3 1/2 years and was survived by his wife and three children. His dedication to serving and protecting the community was evident in his actions that fateful day, where he put himself in harm’s way to respond to a dangerous situation. Bohannon’s sacrifice has not been forgotten, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, colleagues, and the residents of St. Louis.
The guilty verdict in the trial of Thomas Kinworthy brings a sense of closure and justice to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Bohannon. While nothing can bring back the life that was lost, holding Kinworthy accountable for his actions is a step towards ensuring that those who commit such heinous acts face the consequences. The support and solidarity shown by the community during the trial and after the verdict demonstrate the deep respect and appreciation for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe.
As the St. Louis community continues to mourn the loss of Officer Tamarris Bohannon, the verdict in the trial of Thomas Kinworthy serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of holding individuals accountable for acts of violence. The impact of Bohannon’s death will be felt for years to come, but the resilience and strength of the St. Louis police department and the community will ensure that his legacy is honored and remembered. The pursuit of justice for Officer Bohannon is a testament to the commitment to upholding the law and protecting those who serve and protect us.
