Anthony Kirkland

Serial Killer

Anthony Kirkland: A Detailed Account of His Crimes

Early Life and Initial Crime

Anthony Kirkland, born on September 13, 1968, is an American serial killer whose criminal activities have left an indelible mark on Cincinnati, Ohio. His violent tendencies surfaced early, culminating in a series of heinous crimes that spanned over two decades.

First Known Murder (1987)

On May 20, 1987, Kirkland committed his first known murder:

• Leola Douglas, 27: Kirkland's girlfriend at the time, Douglas was murdered after she refused his sexual advances. Kirkland strangled her and then set her body on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence. He pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and was sentenced to 10 to 25 years in prison. After serving 16 years, he was released on parole in 2004.

Subsequent Murders (2006–2009)

Following his release, Kirkland embarked on a killing spree targeting vulnerable females. His modus operandi often involved sexual assault, strangulation, and the burning of his victims' bodies to conceal evidence. The known victims during this period include:

• Casonya Crawford, 14: On May 4, 2006, Casonya encountered Kirkland after leaving her grandmother's house. When she refused his offers of money for sex, Kirkland became enraged, assaulted, and strangled her. He then set her body on fire. Her remains were discovered on May 11, 2006, in Avondale, a neighborhood in Cincinnati.
• Mary Jo Newton, 45: On June 14, 2006, Newton met Kirkland and agreed to accompany him in his van. After a disagreement, Kirkland strangled her and burned her body. Her remains were found two days later near a vacant building in Avondale.
• Kimya Rolison, 25: On December 22, 2006, Rolison, a mother attempting to rebuild her life, encountered Kirkland. He stabbed her in the neck and subsequently burned her body. Her remains were discovered later in a wooded area.
• Esme Kenney, 13: On March 7, 2009, Esme went jogging near her home when she crossed paths with Kirkland. He abducted, assaulted, and strangled her before setting her body on fire. Kirkland was found asleep near the crime scene, in possession of Esme's watch and iPod, leading to his arrest.

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Confirmed Victims: (5)

Leola Douglas Age: (27), Date of Death: May 20, 1987

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Anthony Kirkland - Wikipedia

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