Marina
The shocking disappearance and murder of two Kansas mothers — Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley — has taken a dramatic turn.
Tifany Adams, the grandmother of Butler’s children, entered a no contest plea in October 2025 in connection with their deaths in rural Oklahoma. Her plea marks a pivotal moment in a case that has gripped the nation since early 2024.
Disappearance and Discovery
On March 30, 2024, Veronica Butler (27) and Jilian Kelley (39) vanished while traveling from Hugoton, Kansas, to Oklahoma for a scheduled visitation. Their abandoned vehicle was found along a remote highway, with blood evidence and Butler’s glasses nearby.
Two weeks later, investigators discovered a buried chest freezer containing the women’s bodies. Both victims had been stabbed multiple times, sustaining over 20 wounds each.
Kelley had defensive injuries and a severe spinal injury, suggesting a violent struggle. These findings confirmed the brutality of the crime.
Suspects and Motive
Investigators determined the murders stemmed from a custody dispute over Butler’s children. Adams, who had temporary custody, opposed Butler’s efforts to increase her visitation rights.
Five people were charged:
| Name | Relationship / Role | Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Tifany Adams | Grandmother of Butler’s children | Murder, child neglect, conspiracy |
| Tad Cullum | Adams’ boyfriend | Murder, conspiracy |
| Cole & Cora Twombly | Associates | Murder, conspiracy |
| Paul Grice | Co-conspirator | Murder, conspiracy |
The group reportedly belonged to an anti-government religious sect known as “God’s Misfits.” Adams allegedly bought burner phones and stun guns before the crime and helped plan an “accident” to conceal the killings.
The No Contest Plea and Sentencing
In her plea deal, Adams was convicted of nine charges, including:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- Two counts of unlawful removal of a body
- Two counts of desecration of a corpse
- One count each of child neglect and conspiracy
The death penalty was removed as part of the agreement. Adams faces life imprisonment without parole, with all sentences running concurrently.
She waived her right to trial and will not testify against her co-defendants. Sentencing is set for January 28, 2026, in Texas County District Court, Oklahoma.
What’s Next
Adams’ no contest plea means she will be sentenced as if guilty, though she has not formally admitted to the murders. The case continues for her co-defendants, who may still face trial. The upcoming January 2026 hearing is expected to deliver final justice and closure for the victims’ families.
The plea by Tifany Adams closes one chapter in a horrific crime rooted in family conflict and extremist ties.
The case, marked by shocking brutality and the involvement of a radical group, continues to unfold as the court prepares for the January 2026 sentencing — a moment that may finally bring peace to the families of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley.