American Fork woman who conspired to murder husband sentenced

PROVO, Utah (ABC4) — The American Fork woman who pled guilty to criminal conspiracy after her husband’s death was sentenced today.

On July 12, 2024, Matthew Restelli was allegedly shot and killed at an American Fork home by his brother-in-law. Kathryn Restelli pleaded guilty to murder, a second-degree felony; conspiracy to commit murder, a second-degree felony; and felony discharge of a firearm, a first-degree felony. She and her mom, Tracey

Grist were arrested for conspiracy to commit murder in connection to Matthew’s death.

Kevin Ellis — Grist’s son and Kathryn Restelli’s brother — was arrested in July 2024 for shooting Matthew. He pled not guilty and his trial is set to begin in January 2026.

Judge’s sentencing

The judge imposed a range but stated that the Utah State Parole Board will ultimately decide the sentence.

He imposed that Kathryn serves the maximum sentence for all three of the charges against her: murder, a second-degree felony (one to 15 years); conspiracy to commit murder, a second-degree felony (one to 15 years); and felony discharge of a firearm, a first-degree felony (five years to life).

Matthew’s brothers speak to the court

“Matt was executed by the very people who were supposed to be his family,” said Matthew’s brother Johnathan “Mark” Restelli. “They shot Matt in the back and planted a knife in his hand while his children slept directly above the place where he took his final breath.”

Mark referred to Kathryn as a “black widow” who spun a web and ruined his brother’s life.

“I wish Matt had never met you,” said Matthew’s brother, Thomas Restelli. “I can only hope that you spend the rest of your life locked away for the pain that you have caused.”

Mark and Thomas asked the court to give Kathryn the maximum sentence.

Matt’s mother, Diane, speaks to the court

“Matt’s death has created a massive hole in my heart,” said Matt’s mother, Diane Restelli.

Diane said that Matt had many gifts, and when he was murdered, his gifts were taken away from the family.

“You took away Matt, and all of his gifts, from us,” said Diane to Kathryn.

Diane said that Kathryn has hurt in ways that she did not deserve.

“Murdering my son was a cold, heartless act to which you have expressed no remorse,” said Diane to Kathryn.

Diane asked the court to maximize Kathryn’s sentence.

Kathryn gives a statement

“I am very deeply sorry for the pain that I have caused,” said Kathryn. “I understand that my apology will never be enough.”

“At this point, the least I could do is speak the truth on what happened to give Matt and his family the justice they deserve,” said Kathryn.