He Raped And Killed A Mentally Challenged Woman. Then He Stuffed Her Remains In The Attic Of Her Home.

A man raped and murdered a mentally disabled woman then stuffed her remains in the attic of her home.

Now, he will spend decades behind bars.

Last month, a judge in Florida sentenced Joe Arthur Turner to 55 years in prison for the murder of Jordan Cooper. Turner pleaded guilty to killing and raping Cooper in Keystone Heights, Florida.

Cooper, 25, was reported missing in November 2017, according to FirstCoastNews. Authorities say Cooper had the mental capacity of a 13-year-old.

A few weeks after Cooper went missing, she was found dead in the attic of her home, according to FirstCoastNews. She was found under layers of insulation.

Turner lived down the street from Cooper when she went missing. The evidence collected included a band-aid that was left at the scene, according to FirstCoastNews. DNA from a rape kit also matched Turner.

Prosecutors initially sought the death penalty in the case, but the plea arrangement meant Turner was sentenced to prison. He won’t be eligible for parole.

Cooper’s parents spoke during Turner’s sentencing and said Cooper was a happy person.

“This man took the love of my life, my daughter. I know she wasn’t the brightest star in the world, but she was my brightest star,” said Jeffery Cooper, her father, according to WJXT.

Jeffery Cooper also spoke to Turner during the sentencing and detailed how the killer used to eat dinner at his house.

“You grew up with my son and Billy and all that. I never, ever, ever would figure this from you; ever, ever ever,” Jeffrey Cooper said, according to WJXT. “But I just hope that one day something will change you. Something needs to happen. This never should have happened.”

Turner took a moment in his sentencing and apologized to the Cooper family.

“There is nothing that I can say or do to bring Jordan back. I just wanted to apologize, sincerely apologize. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry,” Turner said, and WJXT reported. “From what I’ve heard, there is forgiveness in your hearts, and I am so thankful for that.”