Tripps Seek New Trial After Guilty Verdicts in Janell Carwell Murder

Leon and Tanya Tripp file motions for new trial following convictions for killing Tanya's 16-year-old daughter Janell.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a personal item related to the Janell Carwell murder case, such as a necklace or bracelet, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.As the Tripps seek a new trial, a stark forensic photograph of a key piece of evidence serves as a somber reminder of the tragic case.Augusta Today

Leon and Tanya Tripp have filed motions for a new trial after being found guilty in the murder of Janell Carwell, Tanya's 16-year-old daughter and Leon's stepdaughter. The Tripps were convicted of charges including concealing the death of another, aggravated assault family violence, felony murder and malice murder. Janell Carwell disappeared on her 16th birthday in 2017, and her remains were found in a shallow grave nearly a year later.

Why it matters

The Tripps' convictions and sentencing were seen as delivering long-awaited justice for Janell Carwell, whose disappearance and death devastated the local community. However, the motions for a new trial raise questions about the integrity of the original trial and could potentially overturn the Tripps' guilty verdicts.

The details

Leon Tripp was sentenced to life in prison without parole, plus 20 years. Tanya Tripp received four concurrent sentences, including life in prison without parole. The Tripps were charged with concealing the death of another, aggravated assault family violence, felony murder and malice murder. Twenty-five witnesses testified during the trial.

  • Janell Carwell disappeared on her 16th birthday in 2017.
  • Carwell's remains were found in a shallow grave in March 2018, nearly a year after she was first reported missing.
  • Leon Tripp filed a motion for a new trial on March 25, 2026.
  • Tanya Tripp filed a motion for a new trial on March 31, 2026.

The players

Leon Tripp

Tanya Tripp's husband and Janell Carwell's stepfather, who was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without parole plus 20 years.

Tanya Tripp

Janell Carwell's mother, who was found guilty and sentenced to four concurrent sentences including life in prison without parole.

Janell Carwell

Tanya Tripp's 16-year-old daughter and Leon Tripp's stepdaughter, who was murdered.

Jared Williams

The District Attorney who said 'Justice for Janell has finally been done' following the Tripps' convictions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Justice for Janell has finally been done. I am so humbled to work alongside such outstanding public servants who made this day possible, and so honored to serve the community that stood up for this child.'”

— Jared Williams, District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide whether to grant the Tripps' motions for a new trial, which could potentially overturn their guilty verdicts.

The takeaway

The Tripps' convictions were seen as delivering justice for Janell Carwell, but the motions for a new trial raise concerns about the integrity of the original trial and could lead to a retrial that would further prolong the pursuit of justice for Janell's tragic death.