Attorney General's News Release

July 18, 2000

State Supreme Court sets Aug. 30 execution date for man who murdered three in Cape Girardeau in 1992

Jefferson City, Mo. — The Missouri Supreme Court today set an Aug. 30 execution date for Gary Lee Roll, sentenced to die for the 1992 murders of three members of the Scheper family in Cape Girardeau.

Roll (DOB - 11/22/52) forced his way into the Scheper house, along with accomplice David Rhodes, during the predawn hours of Aug. 9, 1992 in order to rob Randy Scheper. Roll fatally shot Randy, 17 years old, in the head before beating to death Sherry Scheper, 47 years old, with his gun. Then Roll, either alone or with Rhodes' help, fatally stabbed Randy's 22-year-old brother, Curtis.

Roll pled guilty to three counts of first degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action and one count of robbery in connection with the crimes. The Boone County Circuit Court, which was hearing the case on a change of venue, sentenced him to death.

Rhodes, who also pleaded guilty, received three consecutive life sentences for second degree murder; a third accomplice, John Browne, pleaded guilty to one count of second degree murder and received a life sentence.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818