4 sentenced in 2021 Greenvale Township homicide case

Thursday, four people charged in connection with a homicide that took place last year in Greenvale Township were sentenced.

The four were charged after the death of 55-year-old Chris Jon LaFontaine at his home on July 2, 2021.

The Dakota County Attorney’s Office reported Thursday the following individuals were sentenced:

• Nicholas Taylor, 30, was sentenced to 21 years (252 months) in prison. Taylor had previously pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree unintentional murder, aiding and abetting.
• Timothy Tuit, 36, was sentenced to over seven years (92 months). Tuit had pleaded guilty to one count of aiding an offender and was given credit for 332 days already served in jail.
• Ryann Elizabeth Smith, 23, was sentenced to over six years (80 months). Smith had pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree assault, aiding and abetting.
• Stephanie Peabody, 26—who pleaded guilty to one count of aiding an offender—was sentenced to a Stay of Execution order of 69 months in jail, served 335 days in jail, and was placed on probation for up to 10 years.

The four are jointly required to pay restitution of over $31,000.

Dakota County Attorney Kathy Keena issued the following statement:

“I am pleased that these four individuals are being held accountable for the respective roles they played in the senseless murder of Chris Lafontaine. Our deepest sympathy is extended to Mr. Lafontaine’s family for their loss.”