PHILADELPHIA — An 18-year-old transgender woman has been sentenced to 15 to 40 years in prison following the 2022 murder of a 12-year-old girl, according to the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.
Ash Cooper, who was known as Joshua Cooper prior to her transition, received the sentence in connection to the fatal shooting of Morgan Connors. The sentencing was announced this Thursday by the Bucks County prosecutors.
Cooper, a resident of Bensalem, entered a guilty plea to several charges, including third-degree murder, possession of an instrument of crime, and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence. In addition to the prison term, Cooper is mandated to serve a consecutive seven-year probation period. During this time, she must comply with all rules set forth by the adult probation and parole services and undergo both psychological and psychiatric evaluations.
During the sentencing, an impact statement from Connors’ grandfather was presented by the prosecution. The statement highlighted the devastating loss the family has endured. “The human heart is not built for such heartbreak,” the grandfather expressed, revealing the profound pain caused by the tragic incident.
The case traces back to November 25, 2022, when the Bensalem Township Police Department responded to reports of a possible murder at a residence within a local trailer park. The investigation led to Cooper’s arrest and subsequent plea.
The sentencing reflects the culmination of legal proceedings that followed the distressing event, bringing some closure to the family and community affected by this tragedy. The case also brings to light various social issues, including the challenges faced by transgender individuals in the criminal justice system and the ongoing struggle of communities to combat violence.
