A teenager from Johnston has pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in connection with the 2024 death of a care worker who was trying to protect him from traffic.
Sixteen-year-old Jovahn Karhim Deon Mathis entered the plea on Wednesday, admitting responsibility for the May 8, 2024 incident that led to the death of 50-year-old Kathleen Galloway-Menke. At the time, Mathis was living at the Ellipsis group home and was 15 years old.
The incident occurred when Mathis attempted to leave the facility in a state of extreme anger. Galloway-Menke stepped in front of him to prevent him from running into a busy street. In response, Mathis shoved her to the ground. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and died several days later.
Mathis had originally been charged with second-degree murder, but the charge was reduced to voluntary manslaughter as part of a plea agreement. He also pleaded guilty to seven additional charges, including three aggravated misdemeanors and four serious misdemeanors related to assaults on police officers who responded to the scene.
Galloway-Menke’s family expressed mixed emotions about the plea deal. While they were relieved that Mathis accepted responsibility, they were also disappointed that the charges were reduced. They emphasized the profound loss they feel and the hope that Mathis will grow from the experience.
Prosecutors said the agreement allows for the longest possible period of accountability given the circumstances of the case and the available evidence. Authorities also acknowledged the tremendous impact Galloway-Menke had on her community and the youth she worked with.
Mathis will be sentenced as a youth offender and is currently being held at the Iowa Boys State Training School in Eldora. Formal sentencing is set for July 31, 2026, when he turns 18. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
