San Francisco, California – Timothy Stephenson was sentenced to 16 years in prison for a crime committed in 1998 that went unsolved for over two decades. Living a seemingly idyllic life in a million-dollar home with his family, Stephenson harbored a dark secret from his past. The truth came to light in 2021, leading to his arrest and eventual guilty plea to second-degree murder.
Stephenson’s unraveling personal life, including a divorce and custody battle, coincided with the resurgence of his long-buried crime. An anonymous tip led authorities to connect Stephenson to the murder of a man named Randall Oliphant whom he shot and killed in Kansas City. Despite his initial denial of involvement in the crime, new evidence, including phone records and witnesses, pointed to his guilt.
The case took a turn when Stephenson confessed to his then-husband about the murder in 2014, catalyzing the eventual unraveling of his past. The victim’s body was found months after the murder, hidden in rural woods near Benton County, Missouri. Police investigations in 1998 revealed suspicious activities tied to Stephenson, but insufficient evidence at the time prevented his arrest.
Following a decade of silence, Stephenson’s husband came forward with details of his confession, prompting an undercover operation that captured incriminating conversations. Stephenson’s demeanor shifted during the recorded conversation, revealing his true motives and leading to his sentencing. His 16-year prison term includes credit for time served, marking the end of a long legal battle that finally brought justice to Oliphant’s memory.
The case serves as a cautionary tale of secrets hidden in the past catching up with individuals, even after years of apparent normalcy. Stephenson’s story underscores the importance of accountability and facing the consequences of past actions, no matter how long ago they occurred. Despite the passage of time, justice prevailed, shedding light on a cold case that haunted the victims’ loved ones for over two decades.