On June 6, 2023, David Guillory, 32, and Benicia Knapps, 33, were sentenced for their roles in the murder of Blake Mohs, a 26-year-old Home Depot security guard in Pleasanton, California. Guillory was given seven years and four months for child abuse, accessory to a robbery, and evading an officer, while Knapps received 19 years to life for second-degree murder.
The incident occurred on April 18, 2023, when Mohs confronted Knapps as she attempted to steal a Dewalt box from the Home Depot store. During the confrontation in the parking lot, Knapps shot Mohs before fleeing the scene with Guillory, who was waiting in the getaway car with Knapps’ two-year-old child inside. Mohs was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The sentencing brings a sense of closure to Mohs’ family, who have chosen to focus on forgiveness and healing rather than prolonged legal battles. Lorie Mohs, Blake’s mother, expressed her desire for the plea deal, stating, “I hope this kindness influences their lives as Blake has influenced ours, and I want them to seize this chance.” The family’s choice was influenced by their wish to avoid the prolonged pain of a trial and to ensure that Knapps and Guillory have a chance to change their lives while in prison.
Blake Mohs was a beloved community member known for his dedication as an Eagle Scout and his enthusiasm for law enforcement. His family and fiancée had been planning a wedding reception at Camp Royaneh, where Mohs and his fiancée first met as counselors. Mohs’ fiancée and family shared memories of his life, highlighting his commitment to community service and his future plans in law enforcement.
Pleasanton Police Lt. Erik Silacci recalled that Mohs was a regular collaborator with the local police and held in high esteem. “Blake was a beloved son and brother, eagerly anticipating his summer wedding. Sadly, his life was tragically cut short by a theft that escalated into a robbery, ending in his murder,” Silacci noted.
In the aftermath, the Mohs family plans to continue Blake’s legacy by supporting other families affected by violent crimes. They aim to erect a heart-shaped victims’ memorial near the courthouse to honor those who have lost their lives to violence, reflecting their ongoing commitment to forgiveness and community healing.
The Home Depot community and Mohs’ colleagues also mourn his loss, remembering him as a dedicated and caring individual who prioritized the safety of others. The company’s spokesperson expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing Blake’s significant impact on his coworkers and the local community.
Blake Mohs’ death highlights the profound effects of violence and the importance of community support in the healing process. The sentences for Knapps and Guillory, while bringing some measure of justice, also highlight the family’s remarkable strength in choosing forgiveness over vengeance.
