Trinity County Capital Murder Case Ends in Life Sentence Without Parole

Photos Courtesy of Trinity County Sheriff’s Office

TRINITY COUNTY, Texas — A Trinity County capital murder case that has haunted the community for more than two years has reached its conclusion, delivering justice for two victims and their family.

A Trinity County jury has found Jacob Patrick Chrones guilty of Capital Murder in connection with the September 2022 kidnapping and killing of Karen Waters and the brutal murder of her husband, Clayton Waters. The Honorable Judge Mayes sentenced Chrones to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The case stemmed from the violent abduction and killing of Karen Waters, followed by the murder of her husband, crimes that shocked Trinity County and sparked an extensive multi-agency investigation. While no sentence can undo the loss suffered by the Waters family, law enforcement officials say accountability has now been secured.

Following the conclusion of the trial, Sheriff Woody Wallace, Chief Deputy Jeremy Carroll, and Sgt. Alissa Cockrell escorted the defendants, marking the culmination of years of investigative work.

Sheriff Wallace publicly thanked Trinity County District Attorney Bennie Schiro and his prosecution team for their dedication and perseverance in handling what he described as a complex and emotionally difficult case. He also recognized the jury for their willingness to carefully evaluate disturbing evidence and testimony in order to reach a just verdict.

Special recognition was given to Chief Deputy Jeremy Carroll, who served as the lead investigator. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Carroll’s attention to detail and relentless pursuit of the truth were instrumental in bringing the case to a successful conclusion. Additional thanks were extended to Sgt. Alissa Cockrell, Sgt. Harrelson, and assisting agencies including the Texas Rangers, Sam Houston State University Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Criminal Justice K9 Team, and the Texas Game Wardens K9 Team.

The co-conspirator, Adeline Aparicio Rodriguez, pleaded guilty to murder for her role in the crimes. In exchange for her cooperation and testimony, she was sentenced to 40 years in prison and will face deportation upon completion of her sentence.

District Attorney Bennie Schiro issued the following statement after the verdict:

“I want to thank all those involved with this case, including the Sheriff’s Office, my co-workers, the jurors, and the Texas Rangers. I especially want to thank the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office. Their investigation, most especially Sheriff Wallace and Chief Carroll, made the jobs of the jurors and myself much easier. This was one of the most thoroughly investigated cases I have handled during my time here.”

Sheriff Wallace stated that while nothing can erase the pain caused by these crimes, the outcome ensures that Jacob Patrick Chrones will never again be a threat to the community.

The Trinity County Sheriff’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and standing with victims and their families in the pursuit of justice.