Man sentenced to 40 years in prison for role in Cook County murder

(Cook County, MN) -- A Cook County Court sentenced a man to 40-years in prison for his role in murdering a man in 2021.

The Minnesota Attorney General's office says Jacob Johnson was sentenced for his role in the murder of Ricky Balsimo on Second Degree Murder Charges. The AG's office sought and achieved a maximum sentence of 480 months (40 years) due to Johnson dismembering and concealing Balsimo's body, after shooting the victim following a vehicle dispute. The AG's office accepted authority over the case from the Cook County State's Attorney, Molly Hicken, who requested assistance from the state agency. 

“I am pleased to see the Court hold Jacob Johnson fully accountable for the severity and cruelty of the crime he committed. My thoughts continue to be with Mr. Balsimo’s family and loved ones. Not even the maximum penalty under law can bring Ricky Balsimo back to them, but I hope this sentence brings them some measure of accountability,” Attorney General Ellison said. 

Two other defendants have previously been prosecuted, including Robert Thomas West in February of 2023 and Tommi Hintz in August of 2023. The AG's Office says both aided Johnson after the murder of Balsimo.