Release from prison for woman in 1990 ‘killer clown’ murder case

Sheila Keen-Warren, 61, has been released from prison after pleading guilty to the 1990 murder of her husband’s former wife in Florida. She served 18 months in connection with the well-known “killer clown” case. Last year, Keen-Warren entered a guilty plea to charges of second-degree murder. According to authorities, she shot Marlene Warren over three decades ago while disguised in a clown costume. Following years of unresolved questions surrounding the homicide, investigators linked Keen-Warren to the incident and apprehended her in 2017, although she continues to assert her innocence. Keen-Warren received a 12-year prison sentence in 2023. Her release was anticipated, as Florida statutes provided her with credit for early release due to good behavior. Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg stated to the Associated Press on Saturday that “Sheila Keen-Warren will always be an admitted convicted murderer and will wear that stain for every day for the rest of her life.” Greg Rosenfeld, Keen-Warren’s attorney, informed the Associated Press that his client accepted the plea agreement to secure a swift release, noting she might have otherwise faced a life sentence had the case proceeded to trial. Mr. Rosenfeld conveyed to the news outlet, “We are absolutely thrilled that Ms. Keen-Warren has been released from prison and is returning to her family.” He added, “As we’ve stated from the beginning, she did not commit this crime.” Joseph Ahrens, the victim’s son, recounted to authorities that the doorbell rang at their family residence, and his mother opened the door to an individual dressed as a clown. This individual presented her with balloons before shooting her in the face. Authorities indicated that Keen-Warren was involved in an affair with the victim’s husband, but investigators were unable to link Keen-Warren to the offense until advancements in DNA testing. Keen-Warren married Michael Warren in 2002.