The sentencing of 39-year-old Jeffery Kendall to 50 years to life in prison marks the culmination of a tragic case that unfolded in a California home nearly two years ago.
Kendall was found guilty in May of first-degree murder and child endangerment for his role in the death of 30-year-old Brittany Elizabeth Ligdis, who was shot in the head by Kendall after she ended their relationship.
Prosecutors described the killing as "an execution in front of a 4-year-old child" and argued that it was not the result of a mental break, but rather a pattern often seen in domestic violence cases where the danger escalates after a victim decides to leave.
The case began with a 911 call from Ligdis on February 16, 2024, after Kendall broke into her home while she hid in a laundry room with their 4-year-old son. About 90 seconds into the call, Kendall entered the room and shot Ligdis in the head, killing her.
Ligdis's son, who witnessed the killing, fled the room and responding officers found Ligdis dead from a gunshot wound to the head. The boy's cries of "Momma" were heard by officers who responded to the scene.
Deputy District Attorney Tylyn Wells argued for a sentencing enhancement that increased Kendall's punishment to 50 years to life, citing the severity of the crime and the harm inflicted on the child who witnessed the killing.
Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge Glenn Kim imposed two consecutive terms of 25 years to life on Kendall, calling the case "one of the most difficult" he had experienced. The judge also barred Kendall from contacting his son, with limited exceptions subject to court approval, until November 2035, when the boy turns 16.
Kendall remains in county jail awaiting transfer to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. His mother-in-law shared an emotional video on the first anniversary of Ligdis's death, urging family and friends to remember her life rather than the violence that ended it.
