PICHER, Okla. — The man convicted as an accessory to felony murder in the deaths of two teen girls in Welch, Oklahoma is getting out of prison early.
Ronnie Busick is expected to be released from prison on May 19th, 2023. Busick was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2020 in the investigation into Lauria Bible and Ashley Freeman's deaths. His sentence included credit for time served.
Here is a timeline of the case:
The Oklahoma Department of Corrections confirmed to 2 News that Busick is being released early:
Ronnie Busick received credit for time served in county jail and has since been receiving accelerated credits. Currently, he is getting 60 days a month credit. So, with what he as remaining this month and what he will earn next month, his actual actual release date is May 21, however, because that is a Sunday, he will be getting out May 19. He has five years probation which one year will be supervised.
The bodies of the girls have never been found despite numerous searches, including locations suggested by Busick.
2 News Oklahoma talked to Lauria Bible's mother about this development.
Word of his release hit the family of Lauria Bible as hard as anyone would imagine it would.
“We should get an Emmy award. On the outside, we look strong. On the inside, we are mad as hell,” said Lorene Bible, Lauria’s mother. “What’s that say to everybody that’s going to do stuff, I can just follow this guy’s example.”
“It’s not fair, it’s a punch in the gut, and I feel like it’s a kick in the teeth to Tammy and Gary (investigators) who worked so hard to find justice,” said Lisa Brodrick, Lauria’s cousin.
Lorene has a message for Busick.
“The guy, when he gets out, better be careful because there’s a lot of hate and discontent going on,” she said.
The family says they will continue to search and follow tips that could lead to the girls’ remains.
According to the Department of Corrections, Busick received credit for time served in county jail and also received accelerated credits; 60 days for every month served.
Earning accelerated credits is based on the crime committed, previous criminal history and good behavior.
The release also requires five years’ probation, one of which is supervised.
If you have tips that could help the family, send them to their dedicated Facebook page.
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