Montgomery Woman Jailed 50 Years for Murder

**Splendora Woman Sentenced to 50 Years for Husband’s Murder**

CONROE, TX – A Montgomery County jury has handed down a 50-year prison sentence to Brenda Kay Johnson, 61, for the murder of her husband, Ronald Johnson, bringing an end to a tragic case that spanned over two years. The sentencing was delivered Tuesday, February 13, 2024, in the 221st District Court, following her conviction earlier this month.

The case dates back to the early morning hours of August 17, 2021, when Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a harrowing 911 call from the couple’s home on White Oak Lane in the Splendora area. At approximately 1:17 AM, Brenda Johnson told dispatchers she had shot her husband.

Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered 64-year-old Ronald Johnson deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. According to initial reports and court testimony, Brenda Johnson initially claimed self-defense, alleging a physical altercation during which she grabbed a firearm after her husband supposedly did the same.

However, as Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office detectives delved deeper into the incident, inconsistencies began to emerge in Johnson’s account. Investigators meticulously processed the scene and gathered forensic evidence, which ultimately contradicted her self-defense narrative. During subsequent questioning, Brenda Johnson eventually admitted she shot her husband multiple times “to stop him.” The medical examination confirmed Ronald Johnson suffered gunshot wounds to his chest, an arm, a hand, and his head, underscoring the severity of the attack.

The trial commenced on Monday, February 5, 2024, in Judge Lisa Michalk’s court. The prosecution, led by Assistant District Attorneys Darla Faulkner and Michael Ghormley, presented a compelling case detailing the events leading to Ronald Johnson’s death and the evidence discrediting the self-defense claim. They argued that Brenda Johnson acted with intent, committing murder.

Defense attorneys Bryan K. Fagan and Michael R. Pastore represented Brenda Johnson, continuing to assert her claim of self-defense. They sought to convince the jury that she acted out of fear for her life during a volatile domestic dispute.

After hearing testimony and reviewing all evidence, the jury deliberated for approximately two and a half hours before returning a guilty verdict for murder. The sentencing phase then proceeded, culminating in Judge Michalk’s imposition of the 50-year prison sentence. Under Texas law, Brenda Johnson will be required to serve a significant portion of her sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

Montgomery County District Attorney Brett Ligon’s office highlighted the dedication of the investigators and prosecutors in securing justice for Ronald Johnson. “This case is a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and shows our unwavering commitment to holding those accountable for such heinous acts,” a representative from the DA’s office stated after the sentencing. “We hope this verdict brings some measure of closure to Ronald Johnson’s family and friends.”

This conviction marks the resolution of a high-profile case within the Splendora community, offering a definitive legal outcome to a deeply tragic event that has profoundly impacted those involved.

*For more information on court proceedings or to access public records, visit the Montgomery County District Clerk’s website.*