Forewarning letter to daughter read in court as man sentenced to life for wife's murder

KENNETT, Mo. — Allan Branum was sentenced Thursday to life in prison nearly two years after a shooting that took the life of his wife, Regena, during an argument at the couple’s home in Kennett.

Prosecuting Attorney Jeff McCormick addressed the court by reading a letter written by Regena Branum 60 days before her husband fatally shot her.

The letter addressed Jennifer Branum, the couple’s daughter, and in it, Regena pleaded for her daughter to inform the police if anything ever happened to her. The letter described Branum making numerous threats to kill her either by snapping her neck or by shooting her. In the letter, she also conveys her fear of her husband, stating once again, he had pointed a gun at her that had a red laser attached to it.

After reading the letter, McCormick told the judge the state would be seeking life in prison.

“That night I lost not just one of my parents, but both,” Jennifer Branum told the court. “I was there and heard both sides and I can say that it was not just one-sided. I am asking that you not give a life sentence. I would like to have the chance to have my father in mine and my daughter’s life.”

Branum’s attorney Clay Bullard and Judge Robert Mayer reviewed the sentencing report and made a correction regarding the fact Branum was charged with misdemeanor disturbing the peace, when according to the report, he was charged with a felony.

McCormick verified a mistake had been made.

Once the correction was made, Bullard addressed the judge and asked that the court be merciful and ignore the cries of vengeance that had been made by some members of the press and some family members.

“Nothing that we can do would bring Regena back,” Bullard said.

Mayer said he was ready to proceed with the sentencing.

According to all the reports, immediately after Branum shot his wife, he got dressed, called the police and then called his parents.

“He showed no remorse,” Mayer said. “I sentence Allan Branum to life in prison.”

Pertinent address:

Kennett, Mo.