A man has received a life sentence for fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend’s mother and injuring her father. Hamza Smajlovic, a 25-year-old man from Iowa, was convicted and sentenced last Friday to life in prison without the possibility of parole after confessing to murder and attempted murder in October. Polk County prosecutors revealed that Smajlovic had previously assaulted his ex-girlfriend, Jasmyn Robison, at their residence in Des Moines, the capital of Iowa.
Following what she described as a “painful nine years,” Jasmyn decided to end the relationship after the incident. Her parents, Tony and Ruth Robison, went to help her move out when Smajlovic shot them on November 1, 2024. Tragically, Mrs. Robison, aged 45, lost her life, while Mr. Robison sustained critical injuries after being shot in the head. Smajlovic admitted in court to shooting both victims.
During the sentencing hearing, Jasmyn and other members of the Robison family spoke out about the impact of the tragedy. Chayse Robison, Jasmyn’s sister, honored their mother’s memory, highlighting her bravery and sacrifice. Jasmyn expressed her regret for meeting Smajlovic and the loss of time with her mother. She also disclosed that she had never fully informed her family of the abuse she endured until she decided to leave.
Smajlovic, who apologized to the family in court, acknowledged the devastation caused by his actions, stating that multiple lives had been ruined. He was handed a life sentence without parole, along with an additional 25 years for the shooting. The sentencing judge emphasized that the acts against the Robison couple were distinct and unwarranted attempts to take lives. He underscored the profound impact on both Ruth and Tony Robison, stating that the family had been deeply shaken by the tragedy.
