ST. LOUIS, MO (October 22, 2024) — Carla Welch, 35, pleaded guilty Monday to second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the fatal stabbing of her former boyfriend, 35-year-old Charles M. Johnson II, on Sept. 22, 2022, in the city’s Walnut Park neighborhood.

Welch forced her way through a back door into a residence in the 5200 block of Emerson Avenue and stabbed Johnson six times. She was given a 15-year sentence for second-degree murder and a consecutive three-year sentence for armed criminal action. The case had been set for trial this week before 22nd Judicial Circuit Judge Timothy Boyer.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant Circuit Attorneys Kerri Davis and Christopher Faerber.

“This case is stark reminder that toxic relationships, fueled by jealousy, can easily devolve into fatal aggression,” said Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore. “Domestic violence has a devastating impact not only on those directly involved but also on their families and social circles.”

Welch’s case number is 2222-CR01577-01.

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