Jury Deadlocked in Kendric Knatte Murder Trial, With Self-Defense Claim in Question

Jurors unable to reach verdict, evidence tampering conviction stands

A Texas jury has deadlocked in the murder trial of Kendric James Knatte, who claimed self-defense in the killing of Frankia Mathurin at his apartment complex in May 2020. Deliberations began on Thursday, with the jury unable to reach a decision on Friday afternoon.

"This case wasn't a 'whodunit'...the jury had to decide if Knatte was justified in killing her."
_ Geoffrey Puryear, Defense Attorney for Knatte

Knatte, 34, admitted to killing Mathurin, 32, but claimed it was self-defense as Mathurin had a gun and had sent threatening texts prior to her arrival at his apartment, one of which read "prison or death here we come." Knatte's defense argued that he interpreted this as a threat to kill or be killed, and that he knew she had a gun, having received a photo of her sleeping next to his firearm days prior.

While the jury could not agree on the murder charge, they found Knatte guilty of tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony. He had hidden the firearm used to kill Mathurin, as well as another gun she had brought with her.

The prosecution argued that Knatte had engaged Mathurin by unlocking and opening the door and disputed the self-defense claim. They also pointed to Knatte's text responses, such as "come on, bring it," as evidence against self-defense.

"He should have called 911 and told his wife..."
_ Erika Hansen, Prosecuting Attorney

With the jury deadlocked, the Travis County DA's office may decide to retry the case. Knatte will be sentenced on Monday for the evidence tampering charge.

URLs:

• Original Article
• Cofer and Connelly Law Offices
• Travis County Auxiliary Court Information