Prosecutor Karen McDonald announces charges against a fourth suspect in the January 13 murder of Commerce Township businessman Sam Simko at his Pontiac facility.
Fourth Suspect Charged in Deadly Oakland County Business Robbery
OAKLAND COUNTY, MI – Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald announced on Tuesday, February 4, that Christopher Matacia, 33, of Cincinnati, Ohio, has been charged with five felonies, including Felony Murder, in connection with the homicide of Sam Simko, a Commerce Township businessman.
Matacia allegedly participated in the January 13, 2025, robbery and murder at Simko’s marijuana facility in Pontiac. The felony charges against Matacia include Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, two counts of Felony Firearm, and Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person. If convicted, Matacia faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Prosecutor McDonald Calls Crime “Cold-Blooded”
“The evidence suggests Sam Simko’s murder was the result of a well-coordinated and cold-blooded robbery of his business,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “Everyone involved in the senseless murder of Sam Simko will be brought to justice because Oakland County is, and must remain, a safe place to do business.”
McDonald emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the county’s commitment to prosecuting all individuals involved in Simko’s death. Felony Murder carries a maximum sentence of life without parole, while Armed Robbery is punishable by up to life in prison. The Felony Firearm charge carries a mandatory two-year consecutive sentence, and Firearm Possession by a Prohibited Person could add an additional five years to Matacia’s sentence if convicted.
The Ongoing Investigation and Prior Arrests
Matacia is the fourth individual charged in connection with Simko’s killing, but authorities have not released details about the other suspects or their roles in the crime. Law enforcement continues to investigate, and further arrests remain possible.
The nature of Simko’s Pontiac marijuana facility has raised questions about potential security risks in Michigan’s growing cannabis industry. This case has heightened concerns about the vulnerability of legal marijuana businesses to violent crime, a topic that has been the subject of ongoing debate in Lansing.
Business Community Reacts to Simko’s Death
Local law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to protecting business owners. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has urged business owners to take extra precautions, particularly in cash-heavy industries such as cannabis.
Prosecutors to Pursue Maximum Penalties
Matacia’s case is expected to proceed in Oakland County Circuit Court, where prosecutors will seek the maximum penalties for all individuals involved in the crime. Given the seriousness of the charges, legal experts believe this case will move swiftly through the courts.
Prosecutors have indicated that they may consider additional charges if more evidence emerges. Meanwhile, Simko’s family continues to mourn their loss and calls for swift justice.
Related News: Crime in Michigan’s Cannabis Industry
Simko’s murder has raised broader concerns about crime targeting legal marijuana businesses. Recent reports suggest that many dispensaries and grow operations have become targets for armed robberies, largely due to large cash transactions and limited banking options.
Michigan lawmakers have been debating stronger security requirements for cannabis businesses, including increased surveillance, armed security, and stricter compliance laws. Advocates say these measures are crucial to ensuring the safety of entrepreneurs and employees in the industry.
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