Ocean Springs Man Convicted of First Degree Murder of his Grandparents

Madison and Rankin Counties’ District Attorney John K. Bramlett, Jr., announced today that 26-year-old Zachary Stanford, of Ocean Springs, received two life sentences for the 2015 murder of his grandparents. 

On June 23, 2015, neighbors found Robert and Peggy Faries dead in their home in the Greenfield community of Rankin County.  Rankin County Deputies arrived on scene and found the elderly couple murdered.  They were able to develop the victims’ grandson, Zachary Stanford, as a suspect in the murders.  The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation arrived at the home to process the evidence at the crime scene.

The next day, the Magee Police Department alerted the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department that Stanford was stopped, and ultimately arrested by the Magee Police Department, on several traffic violations.  During the traffic stop, officers discovered bloody clothing, a knife and a .22 caliber firearm with a homemade suppressor attached in the vehicle.  Stanford was questioned by Rankin County deputies where he ultimately confessed. 

District Attorney John K. Bramlett, Jr. stated, “Stanford killed his own grandmother and grandfather in their home.  This is an unthinkable crime and today he was held accountable for his actions.”

Bramlett added, “We thank the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the Magee Police Department for their hard work during this investigation so that Mr. and Mrs. Faries could receive the justice they deserve.”

Defendant:

Name: Zachary Stanford                                                                    

Date of Birth: 1/27/1993