Ivan Livingston, 25, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in Treasure Burton’s death and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. The sentence includes 19 months of credit for time already served, and Livingston had faced a maximum of 20 years, according to FOX 26 Houston. Judge Lori Chambers Gray of the 262nd Criminal District Court imposed the sentence.
The case before the plea
Burton was 19 and celebrating her birthday in Houston when she was killed in January 2023. FOX 26, citing court testimony, reported that she had met Livingston and one of his friends that night. Earlier reporting by ABC13 placed the shooting near Westheimer Road and Fondren and reported that Livingston was arrested on May 19, five months after Burton’s death. ABC13 said he was initially charged with aggravated assault.
The family’s response and parole eligibility
In an interview with FOX 26, Danielle Burton said she believed the sentence was inadequate and that she did not feel heard during the proceedings. FOX 26 also reported that she questioned the judge’s view of Livingston’s remorse. These comments are based on the station’s interview, not an independent interview for this article.
FOX 26 reported that Livingston could be considered for parole in about three years. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice says its Correctional Institutions Division Records Office calculates parole eligibility dates, and the portion of a sentence required before eligibility depends on the offense and applicable law.
