By Tom Smith
Senior Staff Writer
Published: Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 3:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at 11:09 p.m.
LAWRENCEBURG, TENN. - A Lawrence County man agreed Wednesday to a 25-year prison sentence for killing his wife in March 2010.
Joshua Stanley Chapman, 29, 73 Piney Road, Lawrenceburg, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, Lawrence County District Attorney General Mike Bottoms said.
He was charged with first-degree murder. He is accused of shooting Daysha Marie Price Chapman, 24, on March 28 at the couple’s Piney community home, southwest of Lawrenceburg.
Bottoms said Chapman’s plea agreement was a “compromise by both sides.”
“We’re pleased with the settlement,” Bottoms said. “This is a case that is tough on everyone involved.” He said Chapman must spend at least 21 years in jail.
Investigators said Daysha Chapman was shot with a .22-caliber rifle in her temple. Her body was found in the bedroom of the couple’s house.
The couple have two children. Authorities said neither were at home when the shooting occurred. The children are staying with family members.
Authorities said Chapman called 911 to report his wife had been shot. Chapman told investigators he discovered his wife’s body. He was still at the residence when deputies arrived.
Chapman initially told deputies his wife killed herself. Investigators, however, said the physical evidence did not support Chapman’s explanation, and after questioning, he admitted his involvement.
Chapman has been in the county jail on bail of $1 million since his arrest.
Bottoms said Chapman will receive credit for time served in jail.
Tom Smith can be reached at 256-740-5757 or tom.smith@TimesDaily.com.
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