As of Tuesday, February 26, 2013
© Copyright 2013
Clayton News Daily
By Kathy Jefcoats
kjefcoats@news-daily.com
JONESBORO — Opening arguments are set to begin at 1:30 p.m. in the murder trial of two men in what police said was a botched drug deal.
The two defendants turned down a deal Monday to plead guilty in exchange for life with the possibility of parole.
The deal would have meant a minimum of 30 years in prison for Chaz Jensen Ballard, 28, and Singlee Soun, 26. The men are accused in the February 2011 shooting death of James Johnson, 27, of Alabama during a botched drug deal at the Econo Lodge in Jonesboro.
Police said the men met to transact the purchase of methamphetamine but Johnson was ambushed and shot 10 times — seven with an AR and three with a 9 mm pistol. He was found the next day in the motel room.
But both men said Monday they'd take their chances with the jury. They could get life without parole if convicted.
Attorneys Neil Smith and Karlyn Skall argued unsuccessfully to sever the cases. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Travis Meyer.
Check back for updates or pick up a copy of Wednesday's Clayton News Daily.
More like this story
- Alabama man died in botched drug deal, say prosecutors ( February 26, 2013 )
- Murder suspects turn down plea deal ( February 25, 2013 )
- Defendants to take stand Thursday ( February 27, 2013 )
- Police charge four in death ( September 12, 2011 )
- Jury selection begins in double murder trial ( March 11, 2013 )
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