ORLANDO, Florida -- Former FAMU drum major Rikki Wills rejected a plea deal Friday in the fatal hazing of his roommate Robert Champion and is set to become the first ex-band member to go to trial in the case.
Wills, 24, did not appear in court with Orlando attorney Bill Hancock, who informed Circuit Judge Donald Myers of the former student band leader's decision. Jury selection for the trial is scheduled to begin May 13 in Orange County.
Hancock, who did not reveal the state's offer, and assistant state attorney Nicole Pegues estimated the trial will take at least four days to present evidence, and both predicted that publicity over the tragedy might hamper efforts to seat a jury.
Champion, 26, was beaten to death Nov. 19, 2011, during a hazing ritual on ...
CONTINUE READING
No comments:
Post a Comment