Henderson man accepts plea deal after fatally stabbing girlfriend

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A 28-year-old Henderson man named Maurice Vanderhall has accepted a plea deal with the Clark County District Attorney's office several months after police arrested him for killing his 26-year-old girlfriend Kennedi Oriti. Vanderhall pleaded guilty to second-degree murder with a deadly weapon after admitting to Henderson police that he stabbed Oriti to death at their shared condominium complex.

Why it matters

Domestic violence and fatal attacks on intimate partners remain a serious public safety issue, with the Clark County District Attorney's office working to hold perpetrators accountable through plea deals and sentencing. This case highlights the need for greater resources and support services to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to court documents, Vanderhall admitted to killing Oriti as she was moving out of their shared condo. Police found Oriti's body with at least 20 stab wounds, some of which were defensive wounds. Vanderhall also attempted to commit suicide by stabbing himself and trying to hang himself in a closet. As part of the plea deal, Vanderhall faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, with a maximum sentence of either 25 years or life depending on the judge's decision.

• On December 2, Vanderhall was arrested by Henderson police.
• On March 17, Vanderhall pleaded guilty to second-degree murder with a deadly weapon.
• Vanderhall is scheduled to be sentenced on May 6.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Vanderhall is scheduled to be sentenced by the judge on May 6, where he could receive a minimum of 10 years in prison or a maximum of either 25 years or life.