EAU CLAIRE, WI – A Wisconsin woman has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for her involvement in the killing and dismemberment of her 79-year-old roommate, whose remains were discovered in a tarp along the Rock River in Illinois.

Tracey Clark, 57, received the sentence on a charge of second-degree reckless homicide after she pleaded no contest to the death of Dennis Schattie. The gruesome details of the case have shocked the local community, with Clark’s boyfriend, Brandon Gaston, being accused of executing the grisly act. Gaston is scheduled to stand trial in March.

Eau Claire County Assistant District Attorney Kelly Ronquist detailed the horrific nature of the crime, explaining that Gaston allegedly used a knife to sever Schattie’s head and fingers. Ronquist emphasized Schattie’s kindness and generosity, noting his care and concern for Clark.

In a tearful courtroom apology, Clark stated, “Denny was a good man and didn’t deserve this. He was kind and understanding,” acknowledging the trust Schattie had in her, which was tragically betrayed.

The case began in April 2022 when authorities discovered remains near a dam in Rockford, Illinois. Schattie’s body was wrapped in a tarp with his dentures marked with his name and showed signs of having been cut and partially burned, confirming the brutal nature of his death. Further investigation led police to identify Clark and Gaston’s residence in Altoona, Wisconsin, as the crime scene.

Clark confessed to her role in the harrowing events, stating that Gaston had struck Schattie with a hammer before sexually assaulting her and forcing her to aid in the disposal of the body. Clark admitted she threw Schattie’s head into the Rock River.

The full impact and turmoil resulting from this crime highlight the magnitude of the betrayal Schattie suffered at the hands of those he welcomed into his home.

As Gaston awaits his day in court, the case remains emblematic of a chilling breach of trust, and community members continue to grapple with the loss of a man described as gentle and caring.