Rushane Barnett, the 23-year-old who killed his cousin and her four children in Cocoa Piece, Clarendon in June, has been sentenced to 61 years and eight months in prison before he becomes eligible for parole.

Barnett appeared before the Home Circuit court for sentencing today (October 20) and received five life sentences.

He was initially to be sentenced last month but presiding judge Justice Leighton Pusey said more time was needed to deliberate his sentence.

Barnett pleaded guilty to the murder of 31-year-old Kemisha Wright and her children on July 28, 2022.

They include: 15-year-old Kimanda Smith, 12-year-old Sharalee Smith, five-year-old Rafaella Smith and 23-month-old Kishawn Henry.

All victims were found with their throats slashed on June 21 at their Cocoa Piece home in the parish.