York County, October 25, 2025
News Summary
Mitchell Charles Strickland received a 30-year sentence for the voluntary manslaughter of his landlord, Steven Stowe, and for third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The conflict arose during an argument over food, leading to Strickland shooting Stowe. In addition, investigators found illegal content on Strickland’s phone. Stowe’s family requested the maximum sentence, which was granted, while Strickland’s wife faces related charges.
York County – Mitchell Charles Strickland, 40, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the voluntary manslaughter of his landlord, Steven Stowe, and for third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The sentencing was handed down following events that unfolded in May 2024, when Strickland shot Stowe, 51, three times on his front porch during an argument over food.
Strickland faced a murder charge initially but accepted a plea deal for manslaughter. After the shooting, he was apprehended by law enforcement over 100 miles away in North Carolina while on Interstate 85. Investigators discovered illegal images and videos of child sexual abuse on Strickland’s phone, which led to additional charges of child exploitation.
Prior to the incident, Strickland and his wife had been residing in a camper on Stowe’s property, as Stowe had offered accommodation in an effort to help those in need. The conflict that led to Stowe’s death was reportedly sparked by a trivial dispute regarding food. Stowe’s family, while mourning his loss, requested the maximum sentence of 30 years for Strickland.
During the sentencing hearing, Strickland expressed remorse and stated he wished he could alter the past, acknowledging the lifelong consequences he would have to bear as a result of his actions. His defense attorney argued that Strickland acted under the mistaken belief that Stowe was armed during the confrontation, suggesting that this misperception influenced the outcome of the argument.
Additionally, Strickland’s lawyer claimed that the offensive material discovered on his phone was received inadvertently, arguing it was part of adult content rather than an intentional act. Strickland received credit for the 537 days already served in jail prior to the sentencing decision.
The case surrounding Strickland also involves an ongoing legal matter for his wife, who faces a pending charge as an accessory after the fact related to the shooting incident. The community continues to process the implications of this case, as Stowe was remembered fondly by family and friends for his intelligence, passion for Alabama football, NASCAR, and hunting.
Key Facts
- Strickland sentenced to 30 years for manslaughter and child exploitation.
- Shooting occurred in May 2024 during an argument over food.
- Strickland found 100 miles away in North Carolina post-shooting.
- Evidence of child exploitation found on Strickland’s phone.
- Stowe’s family advocated for a full 30-year sentence.
Background Context
The confrontation between Strickland and Stowe escalated over a seemingly minor disagreement. Stowe had taken Strickland and his wife under his wing, providing them with a place to stay as part of his support for those in need. Following the tragic events, investigations unveiled disturbing evidence that compounded the gravity of Strickland’s charges.
Upcoming Related Cases
Strickland’s legal troubles are not over, as his wife also faces charges connected to the incident. The ongoing legal matters related to their actions could bring further scrutiny to the case and its implications for public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the manslaughter charge?
Strickland was charged with voluntary manslaughter after he shot his landlord, Steven Stowe, during an argument over food.
What evidence led to additional charges?
Illegal pictures and videos of child sexual abuse were found on Strickland’s phone, leading to charges of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
How long will Strickland serve in prison?
Strickland was sentenced to 30 years in prison, with credit for 537 days already served prior to sentencing.
What is the status of Strickland’s wife?
Strickland’s wife faces a pending charge as an accessory after the fact regarding the shooting incident.
Summary of Featured Aspects
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Mitchell Charles Strickland |
| Charges | Voluntary Manslaughter, Third-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor |
| Victim | Steven Stowe |
| Incident Date | May 2024 |
| Sentence | 30 Years in Prison |
| Additional Findings | Child Sexual Abuse Material on Phone |
| Strickland’s Status | Credit for 537 Days Served |
| Accessory Charge | Strickland’s Wife |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lancaster County Circuit Court Addresses Multiple Cases
Vacant York County Circuit Court Seat Draws Controversy
Lancaster Man Receives 50-Year Sentence for Murder
No Charges Filed in Fatal Shooting Outside Dollar General
No Charges Filed in Sharon Self-Defense Shooting Incident
Rock Hill Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Voluntary Manslaughter
Former Football Player Sentenced for Stabbing Girlfriend
Man Arrested for Stabbing Pregnant Woman in Rock Hill
Rock Hill Man Arrested for Stabbing Pregnant Partner to Death
Tragic Stabbing Claims Life of Pregnant Woman in Rock Hill
Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- Wikipedia: Voluntary Manslaughter
- York Dispatch
- Google Search: Manslaughter
- Post and Courier
- Google Scholar: Homicide laws
- Charlotte Observer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Homicide
- York Daily Record
- Google News: York County crime
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
