Helena man gets life in prison for 2024 homicide

A Helena man, Kenneth Greene, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the deliberate homicide of Bernadette Johnson, whom he killed in June 2024. During the sentencing, Judge Mike McMahon referred to the crime as "heinous" and emphasized the profound impact it had on Johnson's family and loved ones.

Greene was convicted in January for the murder, which occurred when Johnson was dropping off her boyfriend at a hotel where he worked. Confronting Johnson, Greene shot her in the chest with a .40 caliber pistol, leading to her untimely death.

As part of the sentencing, Greene was also ordered to pay restitution to Johnson's family. The court proceedings highlighted the severity of his actions and the irreversible loss faced by Johnson's relatives.

Friends and family members of Johnson attended the sentencing to honor her memory and express their grief. They painted a picture of her as a hardworking and joyful person who connected well with others.

Linda Armiko Gardipee, a family member, passionately described Johnson as someone whose vibrant spirit was tragically cut short, stressing the unfairness of her absence in the lives of those who loved her.