Haine announces 35-year sentence for woman convicted of murder in killing of associate

Edwardsville, IL — Madison County State's Attorney Tom Haine announced today that a St. Louis woman has been convicted and sentenced to 35 years in prison for the murder of a man in Granite City.

Brittany D. Howard, 39, received the sentence Tuesday after pleading guilty to first-degree murder in the death of Kenneth Whitehorn, 58, of St. Louis in April 2025. Whitehorn's body was found in the area of Alton Street and Pontoon Road, at the end of a tree line, on April 24, 2025. He had been shot in the head.

The investigation showed the motive for the shooting involved drugs and money. Howard and Whitehorn were acquaintances.

"We hope this conviction and sentence bring some healing and justice to what was a terrible crime in our community," Haine said. "Our office will always follow the evidence, apply the law and ensure accountability for such heinous acts. We are glad Brittany Howard has now admitted guilt and will serve a substantial prison sentence for her crime."

The case was prosecuted by Assistant State's Attorney Mike Stewart and Assistant State's Attorney Luke Yager. The investigation was led by the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis and Granite City Police Department. Assisting agencies included Pontoon Beach Police Department and St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

"This case required a thorough investigation and coordination among multiple law enforcement agencies to establish what happened and the roles played by those involved," Haine said. "I commend the law enforcement agencies and our prosecution team for their work in bringing this case to a successful resolution."

Howard is required to serve 100 percent of the sentence.

Circuit Judge Amy Maher presided at the plea hearing.

Two co-defendants are awaiting trial:

DeWayne Franklin, 43, of St. Louis is charged with first-degree murder, possession of a weapon by a felon and aggravated unlawful possession of weapons. He is charged with murder under the law of accountability. He remains in the Madison County Jail while awaiting trial.

Michael E. McCollum, 76, of Florissant, Mo., is charged with two counts of obstructing justice and one count of aggravated unlawful possession of weapons. He allegedly provided false information to police, washed and vacuumed a vehicle, and possessed a handgun. He was released under provisions of the SAFE-T Act.