A San Patricio County jury found Michael Shawn Sheppard guilty on all counts of sexually abusing his 3 biological daughters over a decade-long period Friday, Aug. 21, 2026.
Sheppard was convicted of 2 counts of continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 years of age and 1 count of indecency with a child by contact.
The jury also determined Sheppard's punishment: life without parole for each count of continuous sexual abuse and 20 years for the indecency charge. Judge Janna K. Whatley of the 343rd Judicial District Court ordered the sentences to run consecutively, ensuring Sheppard will never be eligible for release.
According to court records, the sexual abuse began in March 2008 and continued through September 2018 in Portland, Texas. The crimes against Sheppard's 3 daughters spanned more than a decade before coming to light.
The Portland Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation that led to Sheppard's arrest on Dec. 31, 2020. A San Patricio County Grand Jury indicted Sheppard on March 15, 2023.
The jury trial began Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, with jury selection overseen by Assistant District Attorneys Kyle Hinkle, Rachel Multer Michalewicz, and Clinton Jones, under the direction of District Attorney Margie Silva. Testimony commenced Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026.
The jury deliberated for several days before reaching a unanimous guilty verdict on all counts Friday morning. The sentencing phase began that same afternoon, with the jury delivering the maximum penalties available under Texas law.
Throughout the proceedings, Victim Assistance Coordinator Suzanne Nieto provided support services to the victims and their families. Investigator Nolanna Ortiz also played a key role in the case proceedings.
District Attorney Silva's office described the crimes as among the most serious offenses prosecuted in San Patricio County.
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