|
Laxton indicted on capitol murder charge |
|
Written by Voice Staff report
|
|
Friday, 30 October 2009 |
The man accused of robbing and killing a Pine Knot woman last month could face death penalty if convicted of the crime.
The man accused of robbing and killing a Pine Knot woman last month could face death penalty if convicted of the crime.
Ronnie D. Laxton, 42,was indicted Monday on charges of capital murder, first-degree robbery and theft by unlawful taking. The charges stem from a Labor Day weekend incident where authorities say Laxton entered the Pine Knot home of Patricia Stephens, beat her to death and then robbed her.
According to statements issued at the time by law enforcement officers, Stephens, 61, was found lying dead on the floor of her trailer on September 5, apparently a result of blunt force trauma. Authorities claim an iron skillet was used in the attack and signs of a struggle and robbery were present. Cash, jewelry and an automobile were stolen from Stephens’ home.
After an intense investigation, Laxton was targeted as Stephens’ assailant. Reportedly, several witnesses told law enforcement officers they saw Laxton driving the stolen vehicle. Laxton was initially interviewed by authorities following the discovery of Stephens, but not immediately arrested. His arrest came late on September 6 after law enforcement officials gathered more evidence in the case.
Laxton, who was convicted of reckless homicide in 1996, remains in jail. Laxton, during initial court appearances, has entered a plea of not guilty. Court dates related to the recent indictment have not been scheduled.
Under Kentucky law, the death penalty can be considered upon conviction of an individual and during sentencing when it has been determined the murder occurred along with aggravating circumstances. In this case, the alleged occurrence of robbery along with murder leads to Laxton facing capital offenses.
Currently there are 37 people on death row in Kentucky awaiting execution, including one man from McCreary County, John Garland, who was sentenced to death in 1999 following his conviction in the deaths of three people, including a girl friend.
Other indictments returned Monday include:
• Teresa Harris, of Pine Knot, on one charge of second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (Hydrocodone).
• Eric Creekmore, of Somerset, on a charge of first-degree promoting contraband.
• Eddie Dean Phillips and Stephanie Phillips, both of Pine Knot, were jointly indicted on charges of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and possession of marijuana.
• Jeff Anderson, of Pine Knot, faces a charge of theft by failure to make required disposition of property over $500 after indictments were returned Monday.
The Voice would like to remind our readers that an indictment is not an indication of one’s guilt or innocence in a matter, but merely represents enough evidence exists to pursue a case further in a court of law.
|
