Curry Seeks Death Penalty Against Suspect In Quadruple Murder

One of the four people charged in a quadruple homicide in February could be sentenced to death if convicted. Marion County Prosecutor Terry Curry announced he will seek the death penalty for Kenneth “Cody” Rackemann.

Rackemann is alleged to have shot and killed three people and ordered the killing of a fourth person during a robbery on the city's southside.

Curry says the victims were killed for no good reason.

"The aggravating circumstances which justify imposition of death penalty in this case are that there were multiple victims," Curry said. "Secondly, that the homicides were committed while also committing a robbery. And finally, that the murders were committed while Mr. Rackemann was on parole."

Trying a death penalty case can cost millions of dollars.

The only other time Curry’s office pursued the death penalty was in the 2011 killing of IMPD Officer David Moore.

IMPD Chief Rick Hite believes capital punishment in this case fits the crime.

"No one who can give a life should be able to take one.  In this case, they took four," said Hite.  "The violence is just not accepted in our society, in our city.  These individuals, unfortunately, didn't get that.  But going forth, justice will prevail."

Hite hopes the possibility of the death penalty against Rackemann keeps others from committing crimes.

"We have individuals, only a small few, who just don't understand that we are all tired of the violence in our society," said Hite.  "I think sending a message of this type, that you need to deter quickly, is what we are trying to all say."

Three other people are charged in the case. 

• Anthony LaRussa: Charged with four counts of Felony Murder, Robbery (Class A Felony), and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery (Class A Felony).
• Valencia Williams: Charged with one count of Murder, four counts of Felony Murder, Robbery (Class A Felony), and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery (Class A Felony).
• Samantha Bradley: Charged with four counts of Felony Murder, Robbery (Class A Felony), and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery (Class A Felony).

All four are due back in court August 14.

Curry says pursuing the death penalty against Rackeman will have no bearing on whether or not he seeks the same for Major Davis, Jr. who is charged with killing IMPD officer Perry Renn earlier this month.

Curry is considering capital punishment in the case.