GRIMES COUNTY, Texas — Two men have been sentenced to 15 years in prison for different crimes committed in 2021 and 2023, according to the Grimes County District Attorney's Office.
William Westbrooks and Michael Briock both pled guilty on Tuesday and Thursday respectively.
In August 2021, an investigation was launched into a burglary and arson case in Bedias. During that investigation, officials learned that a tractor, four wheeler and trailers were stolen from a home. The individuals behind the burglary burned down the house in an attempt to cover up what had been done.
While it was never determined who exactly started the fire, it was eventually determined that Westbrooks, his wife Rhonda Styron, and Amber Garrett were involved in the burglary. The stolen items were later recovered.
Westbrooks faced anywhere from 2-20 years in prison for what he did. Rhonda Styron received a 10-year sentence for her involvement in what took place, while Amber Garrett's case is still pending because she is also facing a murder charge out of Madison County, according to the release from the District Attorney's Office.
Michael Briock on the other hand was sentenced for attempting to evade arrest by authorities in a vehicle on April 20, 2021. That arrest took place in Shiro, when authorities were searching for Briock to apprehend him for active felony warrants.
On that day, an officer attempted to stop Briock, but he took off in his car, and crashed it through a gate after an extended chase. He was eventually taken in by police.
When facing his punishment, Briock's range of years in prison was increased due to his criminal history.
"William Westbrooks was involved in a criminal episode that devastated the retirement home of a Bedias couple. Michael Briock's actions destroyed property and endangered other motorists on the highway, including law enforcement," said District Attorney Andria Bender in a release. "Both men will now pay for their crimes. Our office will continue to send thieves and repeat offenders to prison."
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