KENNETT, Mo. — A 29-year-old man from Dunklin County is facing a lengthy prison sentence following his conviction on multiple felony charges related to a severe domestic assault against his girlfriend. The jury found Cameron Kerbyson guilty on Friday, concluding a two-day trial overseen by Judge Mark Preyer.
Kerbyson was charged with three counts of second-degree domestic assault and 13 counts of tampering with a witness in a felony case. The incidents that led to the charges occurred in Malden in May 2023. Prosecutors detailed a violent episode during which Kerbyson physically assaulted his girlfriend, throwing her to the ground, kicking her, and restricting her ability to breathe by pressing his hands against her throat and face. The assault went far enough that it nearly rendered her unconscious.
The case escalated after the initial allegations as Kerbyson attempted to intimidate and manipulate the victim to undermine her testimony. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that he sought to persuade her not to attend court hearings and to assert that her accusations were false. To further influence her, he offered money in exchange for her compliance.
Sentencing is scheduled for 11 a.m. on November 6 at the Dunklin County Justice Center. Prosecutors indicated that Kerbyson could receive a sentence totaling up to 112 years in a state correctional facility for his crimes.
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Dicus expressed satisfaction with the verdict, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable in domestic violence cases. He affirmed that the ruling represents a commitment to support survivors and actively combat domestic abuse within the community.
Authorities conducting the investigation included officers from the Malden Police Department and the Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Their collaboration highlights the ongoing efforts to address and prevent domestic violence in the region. The case serves as a reminder of the significant challenges faced by victims and the importance of community support systems that advocate for their safety and justice.