Casper Man receives life sentence for fatal stabbing incident

A Casper man was sentenced today to 75 years to life in prison at the Townsend Justice Center in Casper.

Judge Joshua Eames first heard from the defendant's lawyer, Valerie Schoneberger, before pronouncing the sentence.

This case dates back to an investigation carried out in 2021 which found the decomposing body of Ryan Schroeder.

Justin Armando Marquez was arrested as a suspect and later convicted of second-degree murder for stabbing Schroeder 25 times, killing him.

Marquez's aunt spoke during sentencing and shared that Marquez was always gentle and caring with other children and was a good student. Marquez later became a licensed civil engineer and worked for the Wyoming Department of Transportation before moving to Casper to be closer to family.

“What happened here does not reflect his character,” she said.

Marquez also addressed the court and apologized to the Schroeder family. He said Ryan had been his friend and loved him and was really relieved when law enforcement found his body.

The court then heard from the victim's family. Ryan Schroeder's daughter said Marquez was not only a murderer but also a thief for stealing their family's happiness and well-being.

Judge Eames reiterated that sentiment in concluding that Marquez had stolen a son from his parents, a brother from his sisters and a father from his children. He also pointed out that Márquez had deprived the family of the opportunity to bury Schroeder's body with dignity.

A jury previously rejected Márquez's claims that the tragic killing was an act of self-defense.

Marquez will have credit for 1,001 days served so far.

“I hope you can find purpose while you serve your sentence,” Judge Eames concluded.