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Professor Charged with Homicide After Pregnant Mistress's Death

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Matthew Sierra, a 38-year-old professor at Western Technical College, is charged with first-degree intentional homicide and arson for the November 13 death of his pregnant mistress Alexis Pickett.
Authorities say he pressured Pickett to abort the pregnancy and then set her home on fire.
A judge dismissed the charges due to issues with the complaint, giving prosecutors 72 hours to refile; Sierra remains in custody on a $1 million bond.

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Story summary

Matthew Sierra, a 38-year-old professor at Western Technical College, is charged with first-degree intentional homicide and arson for the November 13 death of his pregnant mistress Alexis Pickett.
Authorities say he pressured Pickett to abort the pregnancy and then set her home on fire.
A judge dismissed the charges due to issues with the complaint, giving prosecutors 72 hours to refile; Sierra remains in custody on a $1 million bond.