By David Taylor / Managing Editor
The conviction of Sarah Jean Hartsfield for the murder of her fifth husband, Joseph Hartsfield, has brought to light a chilling pattern of violence and manipulation spanning decades. On October 8, 2025, a Chambers County jury found Hartsfield, 50, guilty of murder for the 2023 insulin overdose death of her husband, concluding a complex investigation that has shocked the community and prompted authorities to revisit several past cases.
The case began on January 7, 2023, when Joseph Hartsfield was admitted to Houston Methodist Hospital with a suspicious illness. Hospital staff, noting inconsistencies in his condition and medical history, alerted the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Corporal Yeatman and Deputy Southwell responded, quickly involving Detective Skyler Rocz, who uncovered further inconsistencies and evidence suggesting foul play.
“From the very beginning, our investigators followed their instincts,” said Sheriff Brian Hawthorne. “They identified the suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr. Hartsfield’s death that could have been labeled as ‘death due to illness’ instead of murder.”
Detective Rocz’s relentless investigation led to the discovery of text messages in which Sarah Hartsfield discussed her “exit strategy” and her husband’s life insurance just days before his death. These findings, combined with other evidence, convinced District Attorney Cheryl Lieck Henry to convene a grand jury. On February 3, 2023, Hartsfield was indicted for murder, and Judge Chap Cain set her bond at $5 million.
As the trial unfolded, prosecutors revealed a disturbing history of violence in Hartsfield’s relationships. Testimonies and records showed that each of her five marriages was marked by instability, threats, and physical assaults.
Her first ex-husband testified, “I was surprised I got out alive,” describing his fear during their tumultuous 1990s marriage.
The prosecution also introduced evidence of a murder-for-hire plot against an ex-husband’s new wife and multiple house fires linked to former partners. The pattern of abusive relationships was a key element in building the case against Hartsfield, demonstrating her willingness to resort to extreme and lethal violence.
Joseph Hartsfield’s uncle testified that Joseph had planned to leave his wife and had confided in family members about his fear of his safety.
“He was afraid of what she might do to him,” the uncle said.
On October 8, 2025, the jury found Sarah Hartsfield guilty of murder, concluding that she had exploited her husband’s type 1 diabetes by administering a lethal dose of insulin. She was sentenced to life in prison and will be eligible for parole in 30 years.
Sheriff Hawthorne praised the combined efforts of the Chambers County District Attorney’s Office and Assistant District Attorney Mallory Vargas.
“This verdict represents justice for Joseph Hartsfield and his loved ones. I’m incredibly proud of our investigators and thankful for the outstanding work of the District Attorney’s Office in pursuing this case from the very beginning. Their partnership and persistence ensured that the truth came to light and justice was served.”
Joseph Hartsfield was a 1995 graduate of C. E. King High School in Sheldon where he participated in sports and theater, many of whom posted thoughts and prayers for the popular student.
“He was on our tech crew for a couple of our musicals, “Hello Dolly” and “The Music Man,” said Claudia Lamascus, his drama teacher. “He was a nice kid,” she remembered.
Hundreds of comments filled Facebook as many followed the shocking details that led to his demise.
The conviction has prompted authorities to reopen the 2018 fatal shooting of Hartsfield’s ex-fiancé, as well as to review other incidents connected to her previous relationships.
News media from around the nation followed the sensational story including Today Dateline NBC who was in the sheriff’s office in Anahuac, Texas. Detective Skyler Rocz is seen discussing details with Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne. Photo courtesy Chambers County Sheriff’s Office
HARTSFIELD TIMELINE
1990s:
Sarah Hartsfield’s first marriage ends in tragedy. She claims her husband’s death was an act of self-defense, a version accepted by authorities at the time.
Between 1990s and 2023:
Hartsfield marries four more times. Each relationship is marked by instability, threats, and violence. Testimonies and records reveal a pattern of abusive behavior.
2018:
Fatal shooting of her ex-fiancé occurs. The case is later reopened following her 2025 conviction.
January 7, 2023:
Joseph Hartsfield, Sarah’s fifth husband, is admitted to Houston Methodist Hospital with a suspicious illness and later died. Chambers County deputies and Detective Skyler Rocz begin investigating after inconsistencies are found.
February 3, 2023:
District Attorney Cheryl Lieck Henry convenes a grand jury, resulting in Sarah Hartsfield’s indictment for murder. Judge Chap Cain issues an arrest warrant and sets bond at $5 million.
During the Investigation:
Evidence emerges of a murder-for-hire plot against an ex-husband’s new wife and multiple house fires linked to former partners. Text messages reveal Sarah was planning her “exit strategy” and discussing Joseph’s life insurance days before his death.
October 8, 2025:
A jury finds Sarah Hartsfield guilty of murdering Joseph Hartsfield by administering a lethal dose of insulin, exploiting his type 1 diabetes.
October 8, 2025:
Sarah Hartsfield is sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 30 years. She was also fined $10,000.
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