Tuesday, February 4, 2025 

Oakland County Prosecutor KAREN D. McDONALD charged Christopher Matacia, a 33-year-old resident of Cincinnati, Ohio, with five felonies including Felony Murder in the death of Commerce Township businessman Sam Simko. 

Matacia allegedly participated in the robbery and murder of Simko at his Pontiac marijuana facility on January 13, 2025. He is charged with Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, two counts of Felony Firearm, and Firearm-Possession by a Prohibited Person.

“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.”

Felony Murder carries a maximum sentence of life without parole. Armed Robbery carries a maximum sentence of up to life in prison. Felony firearm carries a mandatory two-year sentence, served consecutively. Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison.

Charges are accusations and individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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CONTACT: OCPOmedia@oakgov.com