2009.06.24
Judge reduces charge in jogger's death to involuntary manslaughter
A first-degree murder charge has been reduced to involuntary manslaughter in the death of a Southwest Roanoke County jogger.
Defense attorney Neil Horn made a motion to dismiss the charges against Jeffery Martin Young, saying that Roanoke County prosecutors had not proven that Thomas Farrell was struck by Young’s Jeep. Circuit Judge William Alexander allowed the felony hit and run charge to stand, but said no evidence had been provided that showed malice or premeditation. He reduced the first-degree murder charge to involuntary manslaughter. The judge also dismissed the felony murder charge.
The trial will continue this afternoon and the defense will begin presenting evidence. The defense evidence is expected to conclude Thursday morning.
Reporter Mike Allen has more on this story.
