| Friday, October 3, 2008 5:20 PM CDT |
November trial date set in LaSalle County killing
OTTAWA -- A November trial date has been set for the man charged with killing Cynthia Deffenbaugh, 50, more than six years ago.
Randall Jennings, 20, will face the murder charges Nov. 10. LaSalle County Judge Cynthia Raccuglia was told the latest delay has been over getting a defense witness to the courtroom. Jennings continues to waive his right to a speedy trial.
Police learned of Jennings’ involvement when he wrote a letter to Streator detectives. The contents of the letter have not been disclosed, though Public Defender Tim Cappellini unsuccessfully tried to get it thrown out.
Police said Jennings broke into Defenbaugh’s home during a burglary but was surprised by her. He then used a nearby hammer and her crutch to attack her.
Defenbaugh was using the crutch because of an ankle injury. Jennings lived nearby, though they did not know each other well, police said.
State’s Attorney Brian Towne already has won his battle with Raccuglia to include DNA evidence. He said Jennings is not eligible for the death penalty because of his age at the time but has not indicated how much of the possible 60 years in prison without parole he will seek if convicted.
Jennings had been in jail on an unrelated charge when the letter was received in June.
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