California Woman Initially Claimed Home Invasion, Now Charged with Boyfriend's Murder

Authorities in California have arrested a woman initially believed to be the victim of a home invasion that resulted in the death of her boyfriend. She has now been charged with his murder.

Pleasanton, California -

Kennedy Stith, 27, was arrested on Sept. 12 after a year-long investigation by Pleasanton police into the death of her boyfriend, Edevion White, 32.

California Woman Initially Claimed Home Invasion, Now Charged with Boyfriend's Murder

White was found dead at their apartment on Owens Drive on May 1, 2023. Stith initially claimed that two men in ski masks had broken into their apartment and killed him, but police determined this claim was untrue.

On Friday, Stith was charged with murder by the Alameda County District's Attorney's Office.

California Woman Initially Claimed Home Invasion, Now Charged with Boyfriend's Murder

Authorities allege that Stith fatally stabbed White in the chest at their apartment.

According to the Pleasanton police, Stith was "manipulative, abusive, and controlling." They allege that she forced White to sell drugs to pay bills.

California Woman Initially Claimed Home Invasion, Now Charged with Boyfriend's Murder

"The City of Pleasanton extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Edevion White, and we are working closely with them during this challenging period," the police said. "We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation during this investigation, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety of our community."

Stith is being held at the Santa Rita Jail without bail.

California Woman Initially Claimed Home Invasion, Now Charged with Boyfriend's Murder

The arrest of Stith highlights the growing problem of violent crime in California. In San Francisco, for example, the number of homicides has increased by more than 50% since 2019.

Critics blame the rise in crime on the state's Democratic leadership, which they say has implemented policies that have weakened law enforcement and made it easier for criminals to escape punishment.

"The criminal justice system in San Francisco is a train wreck," said Brian Claypool, a criminal defense attorney.

"We have a revolving door for criminals, where they're arrested, released, and then arrested again for the same crimes. It's a joke."

Claypool said that the problem is compounded by the fact that many police officers are leaving the force due to low morale and pay.

"We need to support our police officers and give them the resources they need to do their jobs," he said.

"We also need to hold criminals accountable for their actions. If we don't get a handle on crime, it's only going to get worse."