May 23, 2024
CENTERVILLE, Iowa - On May 22, 2024, the Johnson County Medical Examiner's Office (JCMEO) released the final findings from the autopsy of Journey Marberry. The JCMEO ruled that Journey's death was the result of a homicide caused by blunt force trauma.
In light of the autopsy findings, law enforcement filed an additional charge against Roger Gillespie today. Initially charged with Child Endangerment Causing Death, Gillespie now faces the charge of Murder in the First Degree, a Class A felony. He was advised of the charges while in custody at the Appanoose County Jail, where he has remained since being arrested on January 27.
Media inquiries on this investigation can be directed to Centerville Police Chief Tom Demry at 641.437.7100.
Note: A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
ABOUT THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the largest law enforcement agency in the state. It includes seven divisions and several bureaus, all working together with local, state, and federal government agencies and the private sector to keep Iowa a safe place by following our core values: leadership, integrity, professionalism, courtesy, service, and protection. Divisions within the Iowa DPS: Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Professional Development and Support Services Division, and Administrative Services Division. The Department of Public Safety is led by the Commissioner who is appointed by the Governor.
Iowa Department of Public Safety
215 E. 7th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319