Plymouth's Richard Panepinto Sentenced to 18-20 Years for Trying to Kill Son

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A Plymouth father who shot his son—nearly killing him—was sentenced to 18-20 years in prison for shooting his son—nearly killing him—as an act of revenge against his ex-wife.

Richard Panepinto, 58, was convicted of attempted murder.

Prosecutors said on Jan. 17, 2012, Panepinto shot his 15-year--old son, Shawn, is the driveway of their 24 Jamie’s Path home when Shawn got home from basketball practice. Panepinto fired the first shot at his son’s back—the bullet struck his textbook-heavy backpack. He moved in closer and fired again and his stomach. The bullet damaged his colon and kidney. The boy ”miraculously” survived.

Panepinto then shot himself in the stomach. Horrified neighbors rushed over to help Shawn.

Prosecutors said Panepinto tried to kill his son as an act of revenge against his ex-wife, Janet. They said he was feeling lonely and wanted his wife to feel lonely, too.

Panepinto said he was insane at the time due to depression, paranoia, and loss of impulse control due to post-concussion syndrome.

Judge Richard Chin said it was one of the worst assault cases he’s presided over.

“The actions of Mr. Panepinto on that day in January 2012 forever changed his son’s life,” Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz Cruz said in a statement. “I am hopeful that today’s verdict and sentencing help bring some peace back to this family.”

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