Kentucky Man to Stand Trial for Kidnapping and Murder

A man from Kentucky is set to go on trial next year, facing accusations of kidnapping and murdering a woman seven years ago. Authorities allege that he wrapped her body, stored it under a trailer, and later discarded it alongside a road.

The Scott County Circuit Court announced that Ryan “Todd” Crowley’s trial is scheduled for May 17-28 of next year in connection with the death of April Arnett, who died in 2019.

Crowley was indicted this year on several charges, including murder, kidnapping, and evidence tampering. He has previously admitted to tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse but maintains his innocence regarding the more severe charges of murder and kidnapping.

Crowley’s lawyers have pointed to the long time frame, noting that the charges were filed nearly seven years after the incident, which brings the case’s credibility into question. Court documents suggest his involvement in both the kidnapping and murder of Arnett.

On August 17, 2019, Kentucky State Police received reports of a body found off Highway 2328, also known as Old Lexington Road, in Madison County. The body was later identified as Arnett’s, discovered four days after it is believed she died in Scott County.

According to reports, Crowley allegedly wrapped Arnett’s body and stored it beneath a trailer. Four others, including Crowley’s cousin, Ronald, have been charged with aiding in Arnett’s kidnapping.

Authorities reported that two vehicles belonging to the Crowley family transported Arnett’s body across the Old Clays Ferry Bridge. The men attempted to throw her body into the water, but it became stuck. Eventually, they returned the body to the vehicle and dumped it on the roadside, where it was later found.

Ronald Crowley had been arrested in 2019 on suspicion of fleeing to Oregon.

April Arnett, a mother of three, is remembered fondly in her obituary for her big heart and infectious smile.