Monday, April 28, 2014

Kelli Benefiel murder trial will be held in Jasper County

The trial of a Carthage woman accused of murdering 87-year-old Raymond Ritchhart December 13 will be held in Jasper County.

During a hearing today, Judge David Dally rejected Kelli Benefiel's request for a change of venue, but granted a motion for a change of judge. The case will be heard by Judge David Mouton.

Mrs. Benefiel and her husband, Brian Benefiel, faces charges of first degree murder, first degree burglary, and armed criminal action.

Brian Benefiel's preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. May 14 in Jasper County Circuit Court.

The Benefiels, who were neighbors of Ritchhart, were allegedly surprised by him while they were burglarizing his home at 1237 Douglas Court looking for prescription drugs. Police say they beat and stabbed Ritchhart to death.

1 comment:

  1. Anonymous7:44 PM

    Death penalty for home invasions. That simple.

    ReplyDelete