Judge sentences man for attempted murder in Baxter Springs

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Kan. – A judge sentences an Oklahoma man for violent crimes in Baxter Springs, Kansas.

The Cherokee County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges against Brian Waterman after a 2016 home invasion. In November 2021, a jury found him guilty of:

  • Attempted First Degree Murder
  • Aggravated Kidnapping
  • Aggravated Burglary

On January 4, 2022, Cherokee County Judge Robert Fleming sentenced Waterman to 36 years in prison. According to court documents, he’ll then finish 36 months of post-release parole.

2016 Baxter Springs Home Invasion

In May 2016, authorities say Waterman went into a Baxter Springs home on Kansas Street. While inside, he stabbed 78-year-old Bob Hopkins repeatedly and then doused him with bleach. Authorities say Waterman then fled the scene.

Later, law enforcement got a tip where Waterman was hiding in Miami, Oklahoma. Officers responded and found Waterman hiding under a bed.

After the jury trial, Cherokee County Attorney Nathan Coleman had the following to say.

“Getting this case to trial is the culmination of a tremendous team effort on the part of law enforcement, our office, and all of the individuals who dutifully remained available over the years and responded to their subpoenas to appear and testify. I’m obviously pleased with the jury’s decision and encouraged by their dedication to our system of justice. Sacrificing the time required as a juror is never easy but is essential and the entire community should be grateful. I know the verdict will help provide some form of closure to the victim’s family.”

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