Gargis gets 40 years

Shannon Dale Gargis’ trial was held Nov. 19, and Judge Terry Dempsey handed down a hefty sentence.

Gargis was previously found guilty of manslaughter and aggravated child abuse, in connection with the death of 22-month-old Serenity in March 2016. Both charges are class B felonies that could have resulted in two 20-year sentences to be served concurrently or consecutively.

Gargis was sentenced Nov. 19 to 40 years in prison – the maximum sentence he could have received – according to district attorney Joey Rushing.

“It’s what we asked for. We believed he deserved a stiff sentencing due to the heavy charges,” Rushing said.

Gargis was originally charged with capital murder and aggravated child abuse following the death of his girlfriend’s daughter Serenity. The jury lessened the capital murder charge to manslaughter, which is reckless killing.

According to Rushing, Gargis asked for an appeal bond, but the judge denied it at that time.