In the spring of 2016, a dispute over stolen property in Ardmore, Oklahoma, escalated into a tragic and fatal encounter, claiming the life of 28-year-old Aaron Paul Jacob Lavers. A White male, Aaron was a father, son, and brother who had spent his life in the Ardmore and Mannsville areas. He was known for his love of fishing, working on vehicles, and tattoos, and had recently been making positive changes in his life while working at Blue Bonnet Feed.
On May 17, 2016, what began as a
confrontation over stolen items turned deadly. Aaron and his friend, Anthony Rogers, were in their Ardmore apartment when they were confronted by Craig Stanford. The altercation quickly intensified, and Stanford opened fire, fatally shooting both Aaron and Anthony. The violent act cut short the lives of two young men and left their families and the community in shock and mourning.
The investigation into the double homicide led authorities to Craig Stanford, who was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. In addition to the murder charges, Stanford also faced accusations of burglary, concealing stolen property, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The legal proceedings that followed brought a measure of closure to the grieving families.
In March of 2018, Craig Stanford pleaded guilty to the murders of Aaron Lavers and Anthony Rogers. In a plea agreement, the prosecution agreed to drop the death penalty. Stanford was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders, ensuring he would spend the remainder of his life incarcerated. He received an additional 50 years for the other charges, closing a painful chapter for the families who continue to feel the immense loss of their loved ones.
