2020CR1358

Letecia Stauch, a Colorado Springs stepmother, was convicted in 2023 for the murder of her 11-year-old stepson, Gannon Stauch. The case drew national attention for its disturbing details, extensive evidence, and Stauch’s erratic behavior before and after the boy’s disappearance.

Background:

Gannon lived with his father, U.S. Army National Guard member Albert Stauch; stepmother Letecia; older stepsister and younger sister in El Paso County, Colorado. On January 27, 2020, Letecia reported Gannon missing, claiming he had gone to a friend’s house and failed to return.

Disappearance Timeline:

January 27, 2020: Letecia calls 911 to report Gannon missing.

January 28–29, 2020: Law enforcement launches a massive search effort, but suspicion quickly turns to Letecia due to inconsistencies in her statements.

February 2020: Investigators find blood evidence in the family’s home and in Gannon’s bedroom, along with signs of cleaning attempts. 

March 17, 2020: Gannon’s remains are found in a suitcase under a bridge in Pace, Florida—1,300 miles from Colorado.

Investigation & Evidence:

Prosecutors alleged that Letecia inflicted multiple fatal injuries on Gannon inside their home, then concealed his body before driving to Florida to dispose of it. Key evidence included:

Significant bloodstains linked to Gannon in the home.

GPS data, financial records, and cell phone records tracking Letecia’s movements.

GPS placing her at the disposal site.

False statements and shifting stories to law enforcement and media.

Charges & Trial:

Letecia Stauch faced multiple charges, including:

First-degree murder after deliberation.

First-degree murder of a child by a person in a position of trust.

Tampering with a deceased human body.

Tampering with physical evidence.

The trial began in March 2023 in El Paso County District Court. Prosecutors presented overwhelming forensic evidence and testimony about Stauch’s elaborate cover-up. The defense attempted an insanity plea, but experts testified she was legally sane at the time.

Verdict & Sentence:

On April 3, 2023, the jury found Letecia Stauch guilty on all counts. She was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Key Details:

Victim: Gannon Stauch, 11

Date of Murder: January 27, 2020

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado

Disposition: Convicted, serving life without parole

Motive: Believed to be rooted in resentment and anger toward Gannon and his father

Status:

Letecia Stauch is currently incarcerated in the Colorado Department of Corrections.