Man Who Killed Stepdad With Hammer Sentenced

ST. PAUL (WCCO) -- A man who was convicted of beating his stepfather to death with a hammer has been sentenced to 32 years and 7 months in prison.

Dean Joseph Porter, 49, of St. Paul, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the death of 69-year-old Bill Shocinski.

Porter beat Shocinski last December following an argument. According to the criminal complaint, Shocinski was reported missing following his death. His body was found at least five days later in a rear vestibule of his home.

"This is very sad case that reminds us to be on watch for our elderly neighbors and loved ones. Our growing older population is vulnerable to abuse," said County Attorney John Choi. "Concerned neighbors and friends can help protect them by calling law enforcement agencies when they see signs of abuse or neglect."

Police reported that Porter used a credit card belonging to the victim in September and November. He was living with Shocinski because he had nowhere else to live and wasn't earning any income, or so he told police.