News Source: Feb. 20, 2026 news release from the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
Florence, AZ — The Pinal County Attorney’s Office prosecutor Shawn Jensvold secured a jury conviction on all counts against Anthony Richard Viola, who has now been sentenced to natural life in prison for the 2024 murder of David Jackson and the aggravated assault of Michael McKinney in Coolidge.
The sentence ensures Viola will spend the rest of his life in prison with no possibility of release.
The conviction stems from an October 6, 2024 shooting in the 100 block of West Pinkley Avenue. Trial evidence established that Viola approached the victims and fired 11 rounds, killing Jackson and seriously wounding McKinney. Surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and witness testimony were instrumental in securing the guilty verdict.
“This sentence ensures this violent offender will never again threaten our communities,” said Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller. “My office remains committed to protecting the public and holding offenders fully accountable. The defendant is now behind bars and will never see the light of day. I would like to thank the Coolidge Police Department and Detective Durant for his continued commitment to keeping Coolidge safe.”
This outcome reflects the core mission of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office to protect our way of life. A jury found the defendant guilty on every charge, ensuring full accountability under the law. The natural life sentence permanently removes a violent offender from the community, strengthening public safety for Pinal County residents.
It also sends a clear message that violent crime in this county carries the most serious consequences allowed under Arizona law, reinforcing deterrence and the commitment to protect the public.
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office recognizes the coordinated efforts of the Coolidge Police Department, Prosecutor Shawn Jensvold, Detective Kent Durant, Paralegal Kris Fowler, and the entire prosecution and investigative team. Their professionalism, diligence, and commitment ensured that justice was delivered in this case.
