Eric Knysz’s mother arrested in connection to trooper killing

LUDINGTON — Michigan State Police have arrested Tammi Spofford, 50, mother of Eric Knysz, in connection to the murder of Michigan State Police Trooper Paul Butterfield. Knysz is accused of murdering Butterfield during a traffic stop on Custer Road in Free Soil Township on Sept. 9.
Earlier this month, his wife, Sarah, pleaded guilty of being an accessory to murder and unlawfully driving away a motor vehicle. During testimony, Sarah Knysz said that Eric told Spofford that he had murdered Butterfield. Since that time, Spofford has told the media she was unaware that her son had killed the trooper. Spofford allegedly helped the Knyszs steal a car from a Branch Township resident.
Mason County Magistrate Patricia Baker said she has not arraigned Spofford yet but expects to Tuesday morning. Spofford will be charged with accessory to a felony and unlawfully driving away a vehicle.
The Irons resident has had her share of run-ins with the law, including past charges of obstructing justice and domestic violence.