HICKORY, N.C. — Editor's Note: This story discusses domestic violence, which may include descriptions of violent acts. Reader discretion is advised.
After a six-day trial, a Hickory man has been found guilty of trying to kill a woman he was previously in a relationship with.
The Office of District Attorney Scott Reilly announced Wednesday that 46-year-old Kevin Maurice Linder was found guilty of two charges: attempted first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury. He will now spend anywhere between 45 and 56 years in a North Carolina prison and was sentenced in the aggravated range since he was on pre-trial release for another charge when he was arrested.
The DA's office said on August 17, 2021, Linder repeatedly stabbed Keisha Collins while in a car with her. They had previously been in a relationship for several years.
During the incident, Linder hit Collins in the face before using a knife to cut and stab her. Collins had several stab wounds in her stomach and a deep cut in her neck. Prosecutors said she fought to defend herself and was able to get emergency surgery for her wounds. They also cited testimony from a surgeon who said Collins' wounds could have been life-threatening if she hadn't gotten immediate help.
In a statement shared by the DA's office, Collins said "I am thankful for everyone who has fought for justice for me. I hope this opens eyes to other crimes that happen in the community to show people you can’t just commit a crime and walk free.”
Prosecutors noted Linder was found guilty of violating a domestic violence protective order against him, and that he made veiled threats to harm Collins in recorded jail phone calls he made to her.
If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence, help is readily available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Resources for help are available in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
Note: WCNC instituted a new policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
WCNC Charlotte is choosing to show Linder's mugshot because of the severity of the crime he was found guilty of and the description of what happened provided by prosecutors.