West Virginia Woman Sentenced After Helping Dump Shooting Victim Into Deep Well Using Ratchet Straps, Prosecutors Say
MASON COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA — A West Virginia woman who admitted helping dispose of a woman’s body in a deep water well after a fatal shooting has been sentenced to life with mercy, four years after the disturbing death of 35-year-old Cheyenne Johnson. Prosecutors say 33-year-old Virginia Smith assisted her then-boyfriend in the killing and later helped secure the victim into the well using belts and ratchet straps.
Life With Mercy Sentence After Guilty Plea
Virginia Smith pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, concealment of a dead body, and use of a firearm during a felony in February 2023. Her sentencing came Tuesday, with the court also imposing:
- 1 to 5 years for the firearm charge
- 10 additional years for concealment of a body
- Credit for time already served
Her testimony was crucial during the October 2023 trial of her former boyfriend, 46-year-old Michael Smith (no relation), who was convicted of second-degree murder for the killing.
Victim Shot During Confrontation Over Alleged Car Theft
According to court testimony, the deadly confrontation unfolded on April 29, 2021, after Michael Smith accused Johnson of stealing Virginia Smith’s car. When Johnson returned the vehicle, a physical fight broke out between the two women, during which Johnson reportedly produced a knife.
Michael Smith told police he retrieved a rifle, threatened Johnson, and then shot her in the head after she “would not leave Virginia alone.” Prosecutors also presented testimony from a juvenile witness who claimed they saw Virginia Smith fire the gun at Johnson as well.
Body Dumped Into Deep Water Well Using Ratchet Straps
After the shooting, Michael Smith disposed of Johnson’s body in a deep water well located on Virginia Smith’s property. Investigators say he used a belt and ratchet straps to lower her into the shaft.
Johnson was reported missing days later. Her remains were found only after a tipster alerted police — a tipster later revealed to be Virginia Smith herself, who had been struggling with a serious drug addiction at the time.
Michael Smith’s defense attempted to challenge Virginia’s credibility because of her drug use, but prosecutors argued her testimony aligned with witness accounts and forensic evidence.
Michael Smith Awaits Sentencing
Michael Smith has been convicted but has not yet received a sentencing date. He faces decades behind bars for his role in the killing and disposal of Johnson’s body.
For continuing crime coverage and developing case updates, stay with ChicagoMusicGuide.com.