A 19-year-old Kentucky man has pleaded guilty to the brutal killing of his 74-year-old grandmother in an attack he recorded on his own cellphone.
The Plea
Wyatt Testerman appeared in Kenton County Circuit Court Tuesday, pleading guilty but mentally ill to one count of murder in the October 2024 killing of Cheri Oliver. The plea allows him to receive mental health treatment during incarceration.
Prosecutors said they will still seek the maximum penalty — life in prison — despite the guilty plea.
What Happened
According to court records, Testerman attacked Oliver at a residence on Ridgewood Drive in Erlanger, striking and kicking her more than 50 times before using a metal drinking tumbler to deliver fatal blows to her head.
Investigators said Testerman set up his phone to record the attack before it began.
His own mother witnessed the assault and attempted to stop him by striking him with a cane.
In Court
Testerman told the court he had been abusing drugs at the time of the attack.
“Without reason on that date, I attacked my grandmother, striking her numerous times and killing her,” he reportedly said.
Mental Health Defense
Testerman had initially planned to pursue an insanity defense. However, a defense expert determined he suffers from antisocial personality disorder and was likely experiencing a drug-induced psychotic episode — which does not meet the legal standard for insanity.
Sentencing
Testerman is scheduled to be sentenced on July 7 before Judge Patricia Summe. He faces anywhere from 20 to 50 years or life in prison.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
