Two women convicted in connection with a murder in Minnesota have been released from prison after their sentences were reduced under a new state law. Megan Cater and Briana Martinson were charged in the 2017 killing of Corey Elder during an attempted drug theft. The two women, along with two others, stormed into Elder’s apartment and ransacked the home while the other suspects assaulted and fatally shot Elder. Cater and Martinson had initially been sentenced to 13.5 years in prison but were resentenced under the new law, which redefines aiding and abetting murder.
The recent law amendment in Minnesota means that only those who directly commit or aid a murder can be charged with the crime. This change in legislation can be applied retroactively to those already in prison. As a result, Cater and Martinson were resentenced for lesser crimes of aiding and abetting first-degree burglary. The decision to release the women was supported by Elder’s family, who provided a victim impact statement to the court. Cater had already served over six years of her sentence and received more than five years for her reduced sentence. Martinson, who also served over six years, had her sentence reduced to nearly five years.
The attorneys for both women expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have their clients released early. JaneAnne Murray, Cater’s attorney, highlighted that there are many people serving lengthy sentences in Minnesota prisons that do not reflect their minor roles in their offenses. Bradford Colbert, Martinson’s attorney, acknowledged the loss and trauma caused by the events but emphasized that his client did not play a role in Elder’s death.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty supported the petition for resentencing, stating that the new law aims to ensure that major participants in a murder face the harshest consequences. She emphasized that the court makes the final decision and in this case, chose to re-sentence Cater and Martinson based on their actual involvement in the crime.
However, Bobbie Elder, Corey’s mother, expressed disappointment in the criminal justice system, believing that the women were the masterminds behind the events leading up to her son’s murder. She stated that Cater and Martinson had arranged the entire plan, including ensuring there was a gun present. Elder believes that the women have convinced themselves and their families of a false narrative that portrays them as victims.
In total, six people were convicted in connection with Corey Elder’s murder. The resentencing of Cater and Martinson has sparked debate about the fairness and effectiveness of the new law in identifying and punishing those responsible for violent crimes. While some argue that the law allows for a more accurate reflection of individual involvement, others believe it may result in reduced sentences for those with significant roles in heinous acts. The case of Megan Cater and Briana Martinson serves as a reminder of the complex nature of the criminal justice system and the ongoing discussions surrounding sentencing and punishment.
