Allendale Man Sentenced to Thirty Years for 2023 Murder
A 62 year old Allendale man pleaded guilty and was sentenced to thirty years in prison for the December 23, 2023 shooting death of his girlfriend. The case raises local concerns about domestic violence, repeat offending, and public safety in the county.
Roger Brabham Sr., 62, entered guilty pleas on Monday, December 4, 2025, to the December 23, 2023 shooting death of his girlfriend, Patricia Albany, 58, the 14th Circuit Solicitor's Office said. Police were called to a home on Razor Road after witnesses reported an argument between Brabham and Albany. Authorities say Brabham threw beer at Albany, went to his car to retrieve a firearm, returned and shot her while she was seated.
Brabham pleaded guilty before jury selection and was sentenced to thirty years in prison for murder. He also pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and to possession of a firearm by a violent felon. Those firearm convictions each carry five year sentences that will be served concurrently with the murder sentence. A solicitor's office spokesperson called the combined sentence "effectively a life sentence for a habitually violent offender."
The solicitor's office noted that Brabham had once served time for the death of his wife, and prosecutors framed the recent conviction in light of his criminal history. Local law enforcement and prosecutors urged survivors of domestic violence to seek help and to use available community resources, emphasizing prevention and reporting.
For Allendale County residents, the case is a stark reminder of the human cost of domestic violence and the challenges of preventing repeat violent offending. The shooting occurred in a residential neighborhood, and neighbors described shock and concern about safety in the wake of the incident. Local leaders say the conviction provides accountability, but they also call for renewed attention to support services for victims, intervention programs, and community efforts to identify and report escalating domestic situations.
The sentence and the solicitor's statement are likely to shape public discussion here about public safety, victim services, and how local systems respond to domestic violence. Officials continue to encourage residents to report threats and to connect with law enforcement and social services when relationships become dangerous.
