2 men sentenced to maximum sentences for their crimes in Williamson County

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas - Two men received the maximum sentences for their crimes by a Williamson County jury.

The Williamson County District Attorney’s Office tried two jury trials in January, leading to a life sentence in a murder case and a maximum 20-year prison sentence for a sexual assault of a child case. 

Trial of Edward Figueroa

Edward Figueroa, 44

The backstory:

Edward Figueroa, 44, was found guilty of murder in the shooting death of Kathryn Gibson, 24, in their Leander home. 

Figueroa was later sentenced to life in prison with a $100,000 fine. 

According to the Williamson County district attorney, on August 12, 2022, during a heated argument, Figueroa shot his girlfriend in front of their 16-month-old son. 

He attempted to cover up the murder by moving her body and placing the gun in her hand. 

Figueroa spent four hours in the home with her body, packing drugs into suitcases and then fled.

His friend called 911 to report the crime. 

"I am proud of the work my prosecutors invested in this case and that a Williamson County jury put an end to this criminal’s dangerous conduct. This maximum sentence ensures justice not only for Kathryn Gibson and her family, but also our community, ensuring a violent criminal is no longer on our streets. This is a tragic reminder that abusive relationships are all too common and, unfortunately, can have deadly outcomes. Our office encourages anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse to utilize the resources our county provides," Williamson County District Attorney Shawn Dick stated.

The District Attorney’s Office recommends that, if you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Otherwise, Hope Alliance offers a free 24-hour crisis HOPELine at 1-800-460-7233 for victims of all types of family and sexual violence.

Trial of Victor Rodriguez

Victor Rodriguez, 69

The backstory:

Victor Rodriguez, 69, of Coupland, was found guilty of sexual assault of a child. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

According to the Williamson County district attorney, the victim told law enforcement in the summer of 2022 that Rodriguez had sexually assaulted her repeatedly since she was nine years old.

"Our special victim’s unit was created to help protect our children and victims of domestic violence. These prosecutors often see the worst our society has to offer, but work tirelessly to make sure these individuals cannot hurt anyone else in the future. We hope these sentences bring some healing to those directly affected by these heinous acts. Law enforcement and prosecutors in Williamson County are dedicated to helping make our community a safe place to live, work and play," Williamson County District Attorney Shawn Dick stated.