ST. LOUIS, MO  (June 8, 2026) — James Rogers, 29, was sentenced Monday to 19 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action for the 2022 fatal shooting of 35-year-old Michael Wiott in the City's Mount Pleasant neighborhood.

On August 15, 2022, Wiott arranged to meet Rogers in the 4300 block of California Avenue to sell him a computer device. Surveillance video from a nearby gas station shows Wiott getting into a Hyundai Genesis that arrived at the scene of the shooting. Moments later, Wiott got out of the vehicle and ran south on California Avenue. Rogers then exited the passenger side of the car, drew a handgun, fired multiple shots at Wiott, and stole money from the victim's pocket before getting back into the Hyundai and fleeing the scene.

"The defendant’s decision to kill for financial gain has deprived Mr. Wiott of his life and has devastated his family,” said Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore. "Holding those who commit gun violence accountable is essential, not only for the victim and their loved ones, but also for the safety and well-being of our community."

General Felonies Unit Supervisor Timothy Wright and Assistant Circuit Attorney Michael Ware prosecuted the case.

The defendant's case number is 2222-CR01332-01.