Man sentenced to prison for role in plot to kill sister’s estranged husband

A 40-year-old man was sentenced to 8- to 20-years in prison for his role in a plot to kill his sister’s estranged husband.

Richard Pearson in February pleaded guilty to attempted murder and conspiracy for the shooting of Robert Bessey as he drove south on Interstate 15 near Valley of Fire State Park in November 2012.

Robert Bessey was hit in the neck by a shot fired from a gold SUV in the lane next to his about 4:30 a.m., but he survived. He recognized the SUV as belonging to the girlfriend of his then-brother-in-law.

Authorities said Amy Bessey, also known as Amy Pearson, her son Michael Bessey and Richard Pearson schemed to kill Robert Bessey for a $250,000 life insurance policy and because Robert Bessey beat his wife.

Amy Bessey was convicted in November and was sentenced to 13 years and nine months to 44 years in prison.

Michael Bessey has also pleaded guilty and is set to be sentenced June 9 before District Judge David Barker.

Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039. Find him on Twitter: @fjmccabe