Attorney General Hanaway Announces Guilty Verdict in Butler County Double Murder Case
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Today, a Phelps County jury delivered justice for victims Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes by finding Stephen T. Scott guilty on eight criminal charges connected to their December 4, 2022 murders in Qulin, Missouri.
“Today’s verdict delivers a measure of justice for Margaret Delcour and Wendy Rhodes, and I am grateful to our team, the judge, and the jury for their service,” said Attorney General Hanaway. “While nothing can undo the harm caused by these tragic and senseless acts, this outcome ensures accountability and puts a dangerous, violent criminal behind bars where he belongs.”
The evidence showed that Scott was visiting the Rhodes residence that day with his then‑girlfriend, Candace Gurley. Prior to the visit, Scott had stolen a firearm from his grandmother in St. Charles County. During the visit, he used that stolen firearm to shoot both Delcour and Rhodes three times each, killing both women. Two minors were present in the home at the time of the murders.
The jury convicted Scott of two counts of murder in the first degree, two counts of armed criminal action related to the murders, one count of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, and an additional count of armed criminal action connected to the child endangerment charge. The jury also found Scott guilty of unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful possession of a weapon.
“This guilty verdict is the result of exceptional collaboration between our attorneys, investigators and state and local law enforcement partners,” said Public Protection Section Chief Counsel Gregory M. Goodwin. “I thank our team for their tireless commitment to seeking justice for Margaret, Wendy, and the citizens of Butler County. We will continue holding violent criminals to account and working to ensure a safer Missouri.”
The Butler County Sheriff’s Department led the investigation with assistance from the Dexter Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Attorney General’s Office was appointed conflict prosecutor. At trial, the State of Missouri was represented by Assistant Attorneys General Corie Geary‑Atkins and Melissa A. Pierce, with substantial support from Carl Schwartze and Carrie Boessen.
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