Iowa
Old Press
Jackson Sentinel
Maquoketa, Jackson co. Iowa
Sept. 22, 1939
BLISS FOUND GUILTY OF MURDER
Judge D. V. Jackson found Kenneth J. Bliss guilty of second
degree murder and sentenced him to fifteen years at Ft. Madison
penitentiary. Bliss earlier confessed to the murder of Ethel
Streets of Canton, following a dispute over $5.00 wages due
Bliss.
In pronouncing sentence Judge Jackson pointed out that Bliss had
not planned the crime and therefore could not be found guilty of
first degree murder. He stated, however, in the opinion of the
court, Bliss was not entitled to the minimum sentence of ten
years, but in view of his good character he set the sentence at
fifteen years.
A number of witnesses were called on behalf of Bliss, who was
represented by attorney L. C. Schroeder. Without exception they
testified to the good character, reputation and habits of Bliss.
On the other hand, witnesses acquainted with Mrs. Streets
testified to her quarrelsome nature and that she always kept a
loaded gun in her house. County Attorney Arthur Janssen explained
to the Court that Bliss had been both courteous and truthful.
Bliss will probably be taken to Ft. Madison immediately by
Sheriff Ron Cahill to begin serving his sentence.
[transcribed by K.W., September 2013]