A Pickett County man sentenced to 20 years in prison after entering a guilty plea to the second-degree murder of his wife.
Johnny Ray Foutch sentenced in connection with the 2025 killing of Theresa Marie Foutch. Forensic pathologist Dr. Shannon Crook performed an autopsy and determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the back.
Officials said Foutch will serve the entirety of his sentence in the custody of the Department of Corrections at 100 percent day for day. Officials said the plea agreement followed a consultation with the adult sons of the victim who expressed support for the sentence.
The Pickett County Sheriff’s Office received a call from the daughter of the defendant on July 13, 2025, requesting a welfare check at the residence on Eagle Crest Drive. Officials said Chief Deputy Steve Wilbur arrived at the home and overheard a male and female voice arguing inside before hearing a gunshot. Officials said Wilbur took cover outside the home until Foutch walked out of the front door holding a Sig Sauer handgun. Officials said the victim was found lying face down in the living room with a gunshot entry wound in her back.