February 8, 2019 -Springfield- Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni today announced the guilty verdict delivered today by a Hampden County Superior Court Jury for the February 2017 murder of Mr. Kevin Blanton. 

Michael Brawner has been found guilty of second degree murder for the fatal shooting on Anne Street in Chicopee on February 10, 2017. The penalty for second degree murder is a life sentence with the possibility of parole. Michael Brawner’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for Monday, February 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni stated, “My continued sympathies to Kevin’s family and friends as they continue to come to terms with such a tragic loss.”  D.A. Gulluni went on to say, “I would like to thank the Chicopee Police Department,  and the Massachusetts States Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney ’s Office for their skill and hard work. Assistant District Attorney Mary Sandstrom and Assistant District Attorney Shane O’Sullivan did an outstanding job. I thank ADA Sandstrom for her perseverance, strength, and skill to ensure this just result.” 

Assistant District Attorney Mary Sandstrom represented the Commonwealth with Assistant District Attorney Shane O’Sullivan sat as appellate counsel.