Havasu Man Found Guilty of Assault and Kidnapping Crimes

In a gripping conclusion to a bench trial held in Kingman, Kenneth Sailley, 29, was found guilty of multiple assaults involving his former partner and mother of his child. The courtroom drama unfolded as Judge Doug Camacho detailed the reasons for Sailley’s conviction on two counts of aggravated assault and one count of kidnapping.

As the judge delivered his verdict, Sailley reacted with visible agitation, at times turning his back on the proceedings to communicate with his supporters. His behavior prompted a prompt response from security personnel, who rose to monitor the situation closely. Sailley vocally questioned the presence of security and displayed a lack of respect for the court’s decorum, challenging instructions from the court reporter and Judge Camacho.

“You’ll need to be quiet or I’ll find you in contempt of court,” the judge warned, attempting to restore order. Recognizing the gravity of his situation, Sailley dramatically removed his tie and other personal belongings as officers readied to place him in handcuffs. Tensions escalated as supporters from both sides exchanged heated words, with a few directing angry remarks towards the victim, Sarah Roman, 30.

Despite the chaotic scenes, court personnel managed to effectively guide both parties through the Law and Justice Center without further incident. The case was somewhat unorthodox, structured for a judge’s determination rather than a jury trial. After Roman’s extensive testimony on the first day, the trial was postponed for approximately six weeks to obtain a statement from a physician who had previously treated her injuries.

However, the physician failed to appear, leaving Sailley’s testimony as the sole account presented on the trial’s final day. His version of the events from February 9, 2023, starkly contrasted with Roman’s. The couple’s rocky eight-year relationship, which produced a daughter, was marred by a violent encounter during a child drop-off.

Roman accused Sailley of responding aggressively when she knocked at his door, alleging that he choked her and prevented her from leaving. In contrast, Sailley testified that Roman attempted to push past him into his home, claiming he had no intention of blocking her exit. “I protect my home,” he asserted, denying all allegations of violence.

Judge Camacho ultimately sided with Roman, finding sufficient evidence to convict Sailley on the aggravated assault charges. However, he acquitted him on the kidnapping charge related to their daughter. Sentencing is scheduled for September 20, where Sailley faces a mandatory prison term of 7 to 21 years for his convictions, potentially extending based on the judge’s discretion regarding concurrent sentences.