WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Money stops Hinds DA from seeking death penalty

Money stops Hinds DA from seeking death penalty

JACKSON, MS (WLBT) - The district attorney in Mississippi's largest county says he cannot afford to seek the death penalty in some cases that may deserve it.  

Robert Schuler Smith says the county has cut his budget. 

One of the cases where he will just seek life without parole, because of money, is that of two brothers  Joshua and Zachary Mott, 24 and 19, who are charged with the capital murder of 81-year-old John Friskillo.  Friskillo was an invalid who was severely beaten in his bed after a home invasion and robbery.  He died two and half months later from his injuries. 

"When you don't have funds, you can't make funds up.  I mean you have to consider the entire county, and if we can pursue cases and receive justice, with life without parole, I think everyone will be happy," said Smith.

The county public defender, Matt Eichelberger, says it costs more to try death penalty cases, because of the need for expert witnesses and having to sequester the jury and pay their living expenses.