William Owen Hines Sentenced to 17 Years for Manslaughter and Aggravated Assault in the 2023 Beating Death of 16-Year-Old Preston Lord
William Owen Hines Sentenced to 17 Years for Manslaughter and Aggravated Assault in the 2023 Beating Death of 16-Year-Old Preston Lord
On May 2, 2025, in Maricopa County, Arizona, William Owen Hines was sentenced to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter and aggravated assault in connection with the 2023 death of 16-year-old Preston Lord. This sentencing marks a significant development in a case that has drawn national attention and renewed calls for justice against youth violence.
Background of the Incident
The tragic events unfolded on October 28, 2023, during a Halloween party in Queen Creek, Arizona. Preston Lord, a 16-year-old honors student and athlete, was fatally beaten by a group of teenagers and young adults. The attack occurred after a confrontation involving a stolen gold necklace. Despite life-saving efforts and medical treatment, Preston succumbed to his injuries, including a severe brain injury, two days later.
The Defendants
Seven individuals were charged in connection with Preston Lord’s death:
- William Owen Hines (18) – Pleaded guilty to manslaughter and aggravated assault; sentenced to 17 years in prison.
- Talan Renner (17) – Charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping; pleaded not guilty.
- Dominic Turner (20) – Charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated robbery; pleaded not guilty.
- Talyn Vigil (17) – Charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping; pleaded not guilty.
- Taylor Sherman (19) – Charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping; pleaded not guilty.
- Jacob Meisner (17) – Charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated robbery; pleaded not guilty.
- Treston Billey (18) – Charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated robbery; pleaded not guilty.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
William Owen Hines was the first defendant to reach a plea agreement. He admitted to kicking Preston Lord during the gang-style assault at the Halloween party. As part of the plea deal, Hines agreed to a sentence of 17 years in prison. The Lord family expressed their belief that the plea agreement was appropriate, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
The remaining six defendants have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial. The case has highlighted concerns about youth violence and gang activity in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Impact on the Community
Preston Lord’s death has had a profound impact on his family and the community. His parents, Nick Lord and Autumn Curiel, have been vocal in their pursuit of justice, attending court hearings and speaking out against youth violence. The case has sparked discussions about the need for stronger measures to address gang activity and protect young people.
Conclusion
The sentencing of William Owen Hines represents a step toward justice for Preston Lord. However, the legal proceedings for the other defendants continue, and the community remains committed to ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.
