WHITEVILLE, N.C. – A Columbus County man will spend the rest of his life in prison after receiving three consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole.
A String of Deaths Leads to Life Imprisonment
On Wednesday, a judge sentenced Natrell McKinnies, 29, for the deaths of Diondi Sadler in July 2019, Deonde Sadler in July 2021, and William Edwards Jr. In April 2023.
The families of the victims made a deliberate decision not to pursue the death penalty, stating that life imprisonment offered a greater sense of certainty and closure.
Impact and Possible Next Steps
This sentencing concludes a multi-year investigation and provides a degree of finality for the families involved. Further legal proceedings could arise from related matters, such as the lawsuit filed by William Edwards Jr.’s family against the City of Whiteville and the State Bureau of Investigation. However, Natrell McKinnies will not be eligible for parole.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Natrell McKinnies receive his sentence?
Natrell McKinnies was sentenced on Wednesday.
Who were the victims in this case?
The victims were Diondi Sadler, Deonde Sadler, and William Edwards Jr.
Did the victims’ families seek the death penalty?
No, the families of the victims did not want to pursue the death penalty, preferring a sentence of life imprisonment without parole.
How do communities begin to heal after such prolonged periods of violence and loss?
