Victory! Parole decision has been overturned!

Kansas State Trooper's AssociationKS, United States

May 19, 2025

Thank you all for your support. Due to the overwhelming support received, the decision has been reversed.

The Kansas State Trooper's Association wishes to personally thank each and every one of you for having our backs to ensure justice prevailed.

***Press release***

May 19, 2025

Kansas State Troopers Association Commends Kansas Prisoner Review Board (KRB) for

Reversing Decision to Release Cop Killer

Topeka, KS — The Kansas State Troopers Association (KSTA) today expresses its deep appreciation

to the KRB for reversing its decision to grant parole to Jimmie K. Nelms, the man convicted of the

cold-blooded 1978 murder of Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Conroy O’Brien.

Trooper O’Brien, a dedicated trooper and expectant father, was ambushed and executed by Nelms

during a routine traffic stop on the Kansas Turnpike. His murder has shocked our state and

devastated the law enforcement community for generations. Nelms was subsequently sentenced

to two life terms for first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and firearm possession by a felon.

His crime, if it occurred today, would have subjected Nelms to the death penalty.

The KRB’s recent reconsideration comes after overwhelming public outcry, bipartisan outrage from

elected officials, and an outpouring of concern from law enforcement professionals across Kansas

and the nation. Today’s decision by the KRB to reconsider their action releasing convicted cop killer

Jimmie Nelms on parole is a testament to how a public process can work when citizens band

together for justice.

“We are grateful to the KRB for ultimately choosing justice,” said KSTA President, Technical Trooper

Sage Hill. “Trooper O’Brien gave his life in the line of duty. Granting parole to the man responsible

for that murder deeply undermined public trust and the sacrifices of every law enforcement officer.

Today, justice was reaffirmed, and we are grateful. Tomorrow, we will begin working to make sure

such a close call never happens again. ”

The KSTA also extends thanks to Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Senate President Ty Masterson,

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, KHP Colonel Erik Smith,

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, and many others for their

principled opposition to Nelms’ release. Their leadership and support for law enforcement played a

vital role in bringing this issue back for review.The Kansas State Troopers Association stands committed to honoring the memory of Trooper

Conroy O’Brien and every fallen officer. We will continue to be a voice for justice, accountability,

and the safety of every Kansas community. We will never forget our fallen.

The Kansas State Troopers Association is a professional organization of Kansas State Troopers,

Kansas Motor Carrier Inspectors, and Capitol Police representing more than 500 Kansas State

Troopers, Law Enforcement Officers and retirees from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

For more information contact: Kansas State Troopers Association 785-234-4488

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