Defense argues race plays a role in shooting death of Cherokee Trail High student

In the case of four teens suspected of driving to the home of a Cherokee Trail High School student in an incident that ended with the student’s death, two of the defendants received the chance for more-lenient sentences in juvenile court.

The two remaining defendants in adult court — both Black males — are at the mercy of adult prosecution, facing the possibility of 40 years to life in prison, defense attorney said during a Jan. 20 court hearing that largely centered on the race of the defendants.

One of the remaining defendants, Demarea Deshawn Mitchell, 18, pleaded not guilty on Aug. 31 to first-degree felony murder, aggravated robbery, attempted aggravated robbery and conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery, according to the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

Read More