When police interviewed Sidebottom about his grandmother's death he admitted to being present and striking her, but could not remember details. He later pleaded guilty and was placed on probation for two years. He was sentenced to death on March 6, 1987. Robert Sidebottom brutally beats his 74 year-old grand mother with his fists and a chair until she is unconscious. He then sets her house on fire.
Police arrive at the burning house.
Robert Sidebottom is indicted for the first degree murder of his grandmother, May Sidebottom. Robert Sidebottom is convicted after a jury trial in Jackson County, Missouri of First Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action. The Missouri Supreme Court affirms Robert Sidebottom's conviction and sentence. Robert Sidebottom files a motion for post-conviction relief under Missouri Supreme Court Rule 29.15. Robert Sidebottom files an amended Rule 29.15 motion through counsel.