Deputy Killing Defense: Is Death Penalty on Table?
Ethan Johns has been charged with one count of first degree murder for shooting and killing Chad Mechels, A Turner Co. Deputy, on Sunday, march 15, 2009. Defense lawyers for a Marion man charged with killing a Turner County deputy sheriff want prosecutors to say by the end of the month if they plan to pursue the death penalty. Multimedia Ethan Johns is charged with murder in the March 15 shooting death of Chad Mechels of Madison. The officer was sent to Johns' rented farmhouse to check on him after he reportedly threatened to kill himself during a fight with his girlfriend. Johns and Mechels shot at each other, and Mechels was struck in the right arm and throat with a high-powered rifle. Johns said it was self-defense. In the motion, his lawyers asked the judge to give attorneys for the state until Oct. 31 to indicate if they plan to seek the death penalty so they can prepare a defense. © 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The following comments do not necessarily represent the views of KSFY.com. Users have agreed to these terms and in doing so accept full responsibility for their comments. Moderation is limited. Monday, Oct 12 at 5:11 PM b wrote ...So because he threatened to kill himself and it was an officer of the law that checked on him it is ok for him to shoot him and claim self-defense? Give me a break Monday, Oct 12 at 9:45 AM RS wrote ...give him the chair. you dont shoot at anyone, let alone a police officer, unless your life is in danger. Sunday, Oct 11 at 4:24 PM j wrote ...all cop killers should face the death penalty. he will still have the right to defend himself. Sunday, Oct 11 at 12:12 PM OK wrote ...He had the right to defend himself!!! Saturday, Oct 10 at 10:26 PM death wrote ...he should face death for killing a lawman Add a commentMost Popular |
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