Man Changes Plea, Sentenced to Life in Prison for Death of Monticello Grocer
Monticello, AR – A man who initially pleaded not guilty to capital murder has now changed his plea and been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the death of a Monticello grocer. On February 8th, 2023, Marquel Lemons, 26, appeared in court and entered a guilty plea to first-degree murder in the death of Haitham Jasser. Jasser, 76, was fatally shot during a robbery at his grocery store on July 2nd, 2022. According to police, Lemons and an accomplice entered Jasser’s store and demanded money. A struggle ensued, and Lemons allegedly shot Jasser multiple times. The accomplice, 25-year-old JaShawn Clark, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in November and is awaiting sentencing. Prosecutor Maxie Kizer said the plea agreement was reached after consultation with the victim’s family, who agreed to spare Lemons from the death penalty. “This was a senseless and tragic crime that has left a deep wound in our community,” Kizer said. “We hope this sentence provides some closure for the Jasser family and sends a clear message that such violence will not be tolerated.” Lemons’ attorney, Russell Wood, said his client made the decision to change his plea after “careful consideration.” “He is remorseful for what he did and wants to accept responsibility for his actions,” Wood said. “He understands that he has destroyed a life and a family, and he wants to do what he can to make amends.” Jasser’s family expressed their gratitude for the plea agreement and the sentence. “We are relieved that this chapter is closed and that justice has been served,” said Jasser’s son, Mohammed. “My father was a kind and loving man, and he will be greatly missed.” Lemons was transported to the Arkansas Department of Correction where he will begin serving his sentence immediately.
Man Changes Plea, Sentenced to Life in Prison for Death of Monticello Grocer
Monticello, Ark.
– A man who initially pleaded not guilty to murder in the death of a Monticello grocer has changed his plea and been sentenced to life in prison.
The Facts:
* On June 10, 2022, 58-year-old Robert Johnson was fatally shot during a robbery at his grocery store in Monticello. * 26-year-old Terrence Patterson was arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with the crime.
The Plea Change:
* On Monday, January 9, 2023, Patterson appeared in court and withdrew his not guilty plea. * He entered a guilty plea to first-degree murder, robbery, and other charges.
The Sentence:
* Drew County Circuit Judge Robert Wyatt III sentenced Patterson to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder charge. * He also received additional sentences for the other charges.
The Aftermath:
* Johnson’s family expressed relief at the verdict, but also sadness that the man responsible for his death will never be able to fully atone for his actions. * The Monticello community continues to mourn the loss of Johnson, who was a beloved member of the neighborhood. * Patterson’s attorney said he will appeal the conviction, arguing that there were errors in the trial.