Shelby County Judge Sentences Man to 147 Years, Closure for Community

A Shelby County Criminal Court judge imposed a total sentence of 147 years on Brandon Isabelle on November 20, 2025, following his conviction in the 2022 deaths of Danielle Hoyle and her infant daughter, Kennedy Hoyle. Judge Jennifer Johnson ordered consecutive homicide sentences of 51 years for each murder, totaling 102 years, and added consecutive terms of 22.5 years for Aggravated Child Neglect and 22.5 years for Especially Aggravated Kidnapping, bringing the full sentence to 147 years.

Isabelle had been found guilty by a jury in October 2025 on all counts after a trial that drew strong local attention. Prosecutors pursued consecutive sentences to reflect multiple distinct offenses and to underscore the seriousness with which the court and the community viewed the crimes. The Shelby County District Attorney emphasized that the sentence was intended to honor the victims and to send a clear message about protecting the most vulnerable.

Chief Prosecutor Eric Christensen explained the symbolic significance of the additional 22.5 year terms, saying one year was given for every hour the infant Kennedy was alive. The DA office issued a press release stating that the sentence reflected the gravity of the crimes and the community’s demand for justice for Danielle and Kennedy. The full release is available from the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office news page.

For true crime enthusiasts and community observers, the case offers a study in charging strategy and sentencing structure. The use of consecutive homicide sentences together with substantial terms for child neglect and kidnapping shows how prosecutors can layer charges to produce an aggregate sentence that far exceeds any single count. The highly public trial also highlighted how local outrage and advocacy for victims can shape prosecutorial focus and courtroom outcomes.

Beyond the legal mechanics, the verdict and sentence close a high profile chapter for families and neighbors affected by the case. The outcome will remain a reference point for those who follow criminal cases in Shelby County, and for practitioners and hobbyists who study how courts address crimes against children and vulnerable adults.