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Montgomery County Man Arrested on Drug Possession Charges State News: National Guard Deployment, Population Growth and Regional Changes Dog Days at Produce in the Park set to July 16 Monday's High School Baseball Playoff Schedule

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Trial Dates Set for Pair Charged in Connection with Earling Woman’s Death

By Mandy Billings Aug 15, 2025 | 10:06 AM

(Shelby Co) Trial dates have been scheduled for two people charged in connection with the death of an Earling woman.

Winston “Joe” Leal is facing a charge of First-Degree Murder in the death of 32-year-old Theresa Kenkel. Ashley McWilliams has been charged with Accessory After the Fact.

According to court records, arraignment for both Leal and McWilliams is set for September 8, with a pretrial conference scheduled for September 15. McWilliams’ trial is slated to begin October 7, while Leal’s trial is set for November 4.

The charges stem from an incident on Thursday, July 31, when the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office responded to 204 2nd Avenue in Earling for a welfare check. Deputies entered the home and found Kenkel deceased inside.

At Western Iowa Today, we strive for reporting accuracy. If you see a mistake or a typo, please let us know by email to ksomnews@westerniowatoday.com
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