HOT SPRINGS — A jury in Garland County has convicted a Pearcy man of manslaughter for shooting to death a burglar who was trying to steal an all-terrain vehicle.
Jurors on Thursday sentenced 36-year-old Robert Ryan Sipe to 20 years in prison — consecutive 10-year sentences for manslaughter and illegal use of a firearm.
In February 2010, Sipe caught 34-year-old Brian Luman stealing the vehicle in the middle of the night. Sipe fired one shot that hit the gas tank, then shot Luman in the back, causing his death.
Prosecutor Steve Oliver told jurors it’s an emotional issue but that it is illegal to kill someone trying to steal property.
The Sentinel-Record reports Oliver sought a conviction for second-degree murder but said he and Luman’s family were satisfied with the sentence.