Missouri man sentenced for role in pregnant Benton County woman's kidnapping and death

Jamie Waterman was sentenced to 6 years and 3 months for his role as an accessory in the kidnapping and death of Ashley Bush, a pregnant woman from Benton County. He pleaded guilty to accessory charges in October 2024, acknowledging his involvement in the crime orchestrated by his wife, Amber Waterman. Amber kidnapped Bush to claim her unborn child, leading to Bush's death, for which she received two consecutive life sentences without parole after a plea deal last year. Amber is currently awaiting trial in Arkansas, but legal proceedings have been delayed as a judge considers her mental competency due to an abnormal brain growth. The case has raised significant concerns among local law enforcement and the community regarding the implications of mental health in criminal justice.

Prosecutors have underscored the severity of the crime, emphasizing the need for accountability. Additionally, this situation reflects broader issues related to mental health evaluations in the judicial system. The outcome of Amber Waterman's trial may have lasting implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.