The Jonelle Matthews Murder: Where is Steven Pankey Now?

On December 20, 1984, Jonelle Matthews disappeared from her home after being dropped off following a Christmas concert. Despite initial investigations and national attention, the case went cold for decades. Steven Pankey, who had ties to Jonelle's church, inserted himself into the investigation, raising suspicion.

In 2019, Jonelle's remains were discovered, leading to Pankey's arrest and subsequent conviction. Evidence presented during the trial revealed Pankey's odd behavior and his ex-wife's collection of evidence against him. Pankey was found guilty of felony murder and kidnapping and sentenced to life in prison. He is currently incarcerated at the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility in Ordway, Colorado, and will be eligible for parole in 2040. Dateline NBC also covered the case in an episode titled “Footprints in the Snow.”

Actionable Takeaway: The resolution of the Jonelle Matthews case demonstrates the importance of continuous investigation and the role of persistence in solving cold cases.

Jonelle Matthews was a 12-year-old girl who disappeared from her home in Greeley, Colorado, in 1984.

Steven Pankey is the man convicted of the murder and kidnapping of Jonelle Matthews. He was a former youth pastor at her church.

Steven Pankey is currently serving his life sentence at the Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility in Ordway, Colorado.

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