FAIRMONT — Marion County Circuit Court Judge David Janes handed down a life sentence without the option of parole Monday in the case of a motorcycle gang member charged with a 2022 murder in Carolina.
The sentencing of John Lee Wolfe, of Fairmont, comes just shy of 90 days after a jury found him guilty April 5 of first-degree murder for the death of Henry Silver. The charge of first-degree murder is assigned to a case when a killing is pre-planned instead of spontaneous. During sentencing, the jury recommended no mercy.
According to a September 2022 criminal complaint by the Marion County Sheriff’s office, Wolfe discovered a “hidden relationship” between his significant other and Silver.
“Wolfe learned of this relationship and monitored it for a period of time,” according to the criminal complaint.
On the morning of Sept. 9, 2022, Wolfe met with five other men who were wearing Pagans “cuts.” According to a statement taken by police, they discussed Silver at their meeting.
Police said Wolfe staked out the apartment of his significant other and Silver arrived, not knowing Wolfe was present. The two got into several verbal arguments, according to witnesses. Silver was shot dead at the Carolina Arbors Apartments.
On Monday, Wolfe was also sentenced for conspiracy to commit a felony and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Before being handed his sentence, the victim’s father, Jason Silver, took the witness stand and gave a victim’s impact statement.
“Henry was a wonderful son. We may have fallen away for a little bit but I love that boy, and I miss him,” he said through tears.
Melissa Silver, the victim’s stepmother, also took the stand. She expressed the sorrow she feels regarding the loss of her stepson. She said Wolfe will have to live with that sorrow for the rest of his life.
Marion County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Sean Murphy provided a final statement about the sentence.
“It is a tragedy that Wolfe has involved Henry Silver’s seven children in this act,” he said, “No matter how sorry you may feel, this cannot be forgiven.”
During the trial in April, Murphy painted a picture of gang life for the jury prior to their 45 minutes of deliberations the verdict.
“No face no case,” Murphy said. “No one talks, everybody walks.” Later, Murphy said, “Well, Wolfe walked right into irrefutable, irredeemable guilt.”
Wolfe’s defense attorney, on Monday, provided no further arguments and Wolfe opted to forego making a statement. The outcome of the day was clear the moment everyone stepped into the courtroom.
Upon being asked if he wanted to provide any comment about Wolfe’s recommended sentence, Jason Silver clearly stated his family’s desire.
“Everyday I wake up in a perpetual hell because my son is not here. I think it’s only fair that Mr. Wolfe should do the same,” he said.
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