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Woman sentenced to life for role in fatal shooting and concealment of body

Charleston, WV
A West Virginia woman has been sentenced to life with mercy for her involvement in the murder of Cheyenne Johnson. Virginia Smith, 33, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, concealment of a dead body, and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony in February.

On Tuesday, Virginia Smith was given her sentence, marking a key moment in a case that has drawn significant attention. In October, her former boyfriend, Michael Smith, was convicted of second-degree murder following the shooting that occurred on April 29, 2021.

During Michael Smith’s trial, Virginia testified against him, claiming he ordered her to shoot Johnson.

Michael Smith admitted he killed Johnson after a verbal altercation, alleging she had stolen Virginia’s car. The confrontation escalated, resulting in Virginia and Johnson fighting, with the latter producing a knife.

In a moment of violence, Michael retrieved a rifle, threatened Johnson, and shot her in the head. Virginia asserted in court that he coerced her into the shooting.

Prosecutors presented testimony from a juvenile witness who claimed to have seen Virginia shoot Johnson. After the murder, Michael disposed of Johnson’s body in a well on Virginia’s property.

Her remains were discovered following tips that identified Michael’s actions. Virginia later informed law enforcement, leading to the recovery of Johnson’s body.

Virginia claimed she struggled with a drug problem at the time of the incident, which became a point of contention during the trial.

She also received a one to five-year sentence for the firearm charge and an additional ten years for concealment of a body. Virginia was credited for time served.

Michael Smith’s sentencing has not been scheduled.